Natural vs. genetically engineered microbiomes: understanding public attitudes for indoor applications and pathways for future engagement

Christopher L. Cummings, Kristen D. Landreville, Jennifer Kuzma

Front. Genet. , 26 March 2025; Vol. 16;

https://doi.org/10.3389/fgene.2025.1560601

This study examines public preferences for natural microbiomes and support for genetically engineered (GE) microbiomes in the built environment, focusing on the demographic, sociographic, and attitudinal factors that influence these preferences. Using data from a nationally representative survey of 1,000 U.S. adults, we employed hierarchical regression analyses to assess the relative contribution of these variables. While demographic and sociographic factors explained limited variance, topic-specific attitudes, including positive perceptions of microbiome engineering’s potential to improve quality of life, were the most significant predictors of support. Conversely, age, distrust in science, and perceived knowledge negatively influenced support for GE microbiomes, reflecting skepticism among some audiences. The findings highlight the potential of the Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) framework to align the development of microbiome engineering with societal values and to address diverse public perspectives. This research provides actionable insights for policymakers, researchers, and communicators seeking to navigate the complexities of public engagement with emerging biotechnologies.

The findings from this study provide valuable insights into the factors that shape public attitudes toward microbiomes, both natural and genetically engineered. By identifying the key demographic, sociographic, and attitudinal predictors of microbiome preferences, technology developers and partners can deliver more targeted and effective communication strategies that resonate with the values and concerns of specific communities. Tailoring engagement efforts to the unique characteristics of different groups, while addressing broader concerns about scientific trust and transparency, will be critical for fostering greater public acceptance of microbiome-related innovations. Ultimately, a nuanced understanding of these predictors will enable policymakers, scientists, and companies to engage in more informed, inclusive, and productive dialogues about the future of microbiome engineering. Given the increasing societal relevance of microbiome technologies, these findings offer timely insights for aligning emerging innovations with public values and policy priorities.

See https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/genetics/articles/10.3389/fgene.2025.1560601/full

Figure 1. Model 1 influence diagram of significantly influential variables.