Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance by Changing Our Relationships with Microbes: Lessons from Japan

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Anthropology
• Public Health

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health threat.
• Antibiotic use disrupts the human microbiota, contributing to dysbiosis and chronic illnesses.
• Current Western strategies often overlook the human-microbe symbiotic relationship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore cultural perspectives on microbes, particularly in Japanese food and health practices.
• To investigate how attitudes toward microbes influence human-microbe relationships.
• To identify alternative approaches to managing microbial disruption and AMR.

Main Methods:

• Cross-cultural analysis of Japanese perspectives on microbes.
• Examination of food and health practices related to microbial interactions.
• Qualitative exploration of attitudes toward beneficial and pathogenic microbes.

Main Results:

• Japanese culture often views microbes as partners or beneficial entities, not solely as foes.
• Food and health practices demonstrate a long-standing integration of microbial symbiosis.
• This perspective contrasts with Western models focused on microbial control.

Conclusions:

• Cultural understandings of microbes significantly shape human-microbe interactions.
• Japanese perspectives offer valuable insights for alternative strategies against AMR and dysbiosis.
• Integrating symbiotic views could lead to more holistic approaches to microbial health.