Evolutionary microbial “addictions” can unlock secrets of biodiversity loss, expert flags
Evolutionary microbial “addictions” can unlock secrets of biodiversity ... Nutrition Insight
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Scientific Study Reveals the Importance of Evolutionary Addictions in Microbial Biodiversity
Introduction
31 Aug 2023 — A recent scientific study conducted by a researcher from the University of California highlights the importance of considering “evolutionary addictions” in understanding microbial biodiversity. The study suggests that the field of microbiome research may have overlooked this key component, which can provide valuable insights into microbial behavior and interactions.
Evolutionary Addiction and Microbial Function
The researcher, Tobin Hammer, an evolutionary ecologist, presented his theory in a peer-reviewed opinion article published in Trends in Microbiology. According to Hammer, evolutionary addiction can occur in any host system, including the human gut, plant roots, and even microbes that host other microbes. This concept challenges the prevailing belief that microbes always provide unique and beneficial functions to their hosts.
Implications for Host-Microbe Interactions
Host organisms often experience defects when their microbiome is disrupted. This phenomenon has been known for decades and underscores the fundamental importance of microbes to host biology. However, Hammer argues that by ignoring evolutionary addiction, the microbiome field has missed a plausible explanation for microbially dependent host traits. The absence of a microbe that has become integrated into the host’s system can cause components to malfunction, highlighting the complex interconnectivity within host organisms.
Microbial Biodiversity Loss and Consequences
Understanding whether hosts benefit from their microbes or have an “evolutionary addiction” to them can help researchers predict the consequences of microbial biodiversity loss. Evolutionary addiction may be reversible in some cases if hosts can adapt through genetic variation or new mutations to regain lost functions.
Research Advances in Gut Health
Ongoing research into the role of the gut microbiome in health continues to advance. Recent studies have explored the link between gut health and emotions, diets, and various health conditions such as Crohn’s disease. These findings were presented at the Microbiome & Probiotic R&D and Business Collaboration Forum Europe in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Understanding the role of the microbiome in host health and functioning contributes to achieving this goal.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Protecting microbial biodiversity and studying evolutionary addictions can help preserve ecosystems and promote sustainable land use.
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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 15: Life on Land
The article discusses the importance of understanding the microbiome and its impact on host organisms, including humans and plants. This is relevant to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Additionally, the article mentions the role of microbes in plant roots, which relates to SDG 15, which focuses on protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.
The article highlights the potential negative effects of microbial disruptions on host organisms, leading to malfunctions and defects. This aligns with SDG 3.9, which aims to reduce illnesses caused by pollution and contamination. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of understanding microbial biodiversity to protect and prevent the loss of species and habitats, which relates to SDG 15.5.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.9: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- Indicator for SDG 15.5: Extent of degradation and fragmentation of natural habitats.
The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators, but it highlights the need to understand the impact of microbial disruptions on host organisms’ health and the importance of preserving microbial biodiversity. To measure progress towards SDG 3.9, the number of deaths and illnesses attributed to pollution and contamination can be tracked. For SDG 15.5, the extent of degradation and fragmentation of natural habitats can be monitored.
4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | SDG 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species. | Extent of degradation and fragmentation of natural habitats. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: nutritioninsight.com
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