Probiotic Cities: microbiome-integrated design for healthy urban ecosystems

Area of Science:

• Microbiome Science
• Biointegrated Design
• Urban Ecology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Urban ecosystems face degradation and pollution.
• Human health is increasingly linked to environmental factors.
• Antimicrobial resistance (superbugs) is a growing global threat.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the synergy between microbiome science and biointegrated design.
• To propose solutions for urban ecosystem degradation and human disease.
• To introduce the concept of 'probiotic cities'.

Main Methods:

• Integrating microbiome analysis with biointegrated material development.
• Utilizing biointegrated materials to combat pathogens and remediate pollutants.
• Inoculating landscape materials with beneficial microbiota.

Main Results:

• Biointegrated materials show potential for controlling superbugs.
• Microbiota-inoculated landscapes can remediate pollution.
• These approaches can enhance human immunoregulation and urban biodiversity.

Conclusions:

• The integration of microbiome science and biointegrated design offers a novel strategy for sustainable urban development.
• This interdisciplinary approach can lead to the creation of 'probiotic cities' that support both ecological health and human well-being.
• Future research should focus on the practical implementation and long-term effects of these strategies.