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Navigating trust and science: microbiome research in the Amazon
Raul Y Tito1, Alexandra J Obregon-Tito2, Graciela Meza-Sánchez3
1Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Center for Microbiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium.
Abstract:
Including Indigenous Peoples in microbiome research is both a scientific imperative and an ethical responsibility. Our long-standing partnership with the Matsés Peoples from the Peruvian Amazon provided scientific insights in microbial profiles that have coevolved with humans, studies only possible via trust-based ethical partnerships. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is essential to navigate mistrust rooted in historical injustices. We present our experience implementing culturally informed protocols and equitable benefit-sharing as cornerstones of respectful, inclusive microbiome research with Peruvian Indigenous Peoples. This approach fosters sustainable research partnerships grounded in reciprocal trust and mutual benefit.
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