Navigating trust and science: microbiome research in the Amazon

Tito R.Y.; Obregon-Tito A.J.; Meza-Sánchez G.; Vela-Collantes D.; Lewis C.M.; Raes J. · Trends in Microbiology (2025) · DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2025.08.007

Resumen

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.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de la Amazonía Peruana