Guelph Researcher Explores Amazonian Microbiomes and Family Roots

A researcher from the University of Guelph is gaining insights into health by studying the microbiomes of the Yanomami community in the Amazon rainforest. David Good, a PhD candidate, is exploring the unique bacteria present in human feces from this semi-nomadic group, which is known for having one of the most diverse microbiomes globally. His research not only aims to understand health benefits but also connects him to his family heritage.

Good’s interest in microbiomes was sparked by a personal journey to the Amazon, where he sought to reconnect with his mother’s Yanomami roots. “As I was learning about the language, the culture, the way of life, hunting, gathering and foraging, I was introduced to the microbiome field,” he explained. This experience allowed him to appreciate his heritage through a different perspective, blending his Western upbringing with the traditions of the Yanomami community.

Addressing Historical Exploitation in Research

Good is acutely aware of the historical exploitation that Indigenous communities have faced in research contexts. He expressed concern about how previous researchers have extracted knowledge and resources without providing equitable benefits to the communities involved. “I work on the back of the controversies of biopiracy, exploitation, extraction from previous researchers,” he stated.

To counteract this trend, Good collaborates closely with Yanomami community members to ensure that the research is beneficial to them. One of the initiatives he has launched is a new learning centre that empowers Yanomami individuals to engage in scientific research. This centre provides the tools necessary for community members to collect samples and understand the implications of microbial diversity loss. “That will allow us to train the Yanomami on how to collect samples,” Good noted, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in research.

Understanding Microbial Diversity and Health

Good’s research is supervised by Emma Allen-Vercoe, a professor and Canada Research Chair at the University of Guelph. She highlighted the significance of Good’s approach, which contrasts sharply with past methodologies that often overlooked the agency of Indigenous peoples. “They followed all the protocols … but they didn’t really consider the agency of the people themselves. And that’s something that we need to correct,” she remarked.

The implications of this research extend beyond the Yanomami community. Allen-Vercoe explained how studying the microbiomes of individuals who have not been exposed to industrialized lifestyles can shed light on the changes in gut bacteria over time. “Over a very short period of time, evolutionarily speaking, as the industrial age got going, we changed our lifestyles quite dramatically,” she said. This shift has significant consequences for health, particularly concerning chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.

By examining the microbiomes of the Yanomami, researchers hope to gain a deeper understanding of the links between gut health and overall well-being. Good’s work not only seeks to uncover the health benefits of microbial diversity but also aims to ensure that Indigenous communities are acknowledged and supported in the research process.

In summary, Good’s project is a compelling blend of scientific inquiry and cultural connection. His commitment to ethical research practices and community involvement sets a new standard in the field, paving the way for a more equitable approach to studying Indigenous knowledge and health.