Machine Learning in Microbiome Research and Engineering

Microbiomes, complex communities of microorganisms and their genetic material, hold immense potential for addressing global challenges in diverse sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and bioproduction. Engineering these intricate ecosystems, however, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the complex web of microbial interactions. The emergence of machine learning (ML) has revolutionized microbiome research, offering powerful tools to analyze massive data sets, uncover hidden patterns, and predict microbial behavior. ML algorithms have demonstrated remarkable success in identifying and characterizing microbial communities, predicting interactions between organisms and optimizing the design of microbial communities for specific functions. This Perspective examines the transformative applications of ML in the context of microbiome engineering, encompassing both microbiome data analysis and the targeted manipulation of microbial communities. These techniques employ a variety of strategies, including the manipulation of quorum sensing molecules, antimicrobial peptides, growth conditions, the introduction of probiotics, and the utilization of bacteriophages. By integrating ML with experimental approaches, researchers are pushing the boundaries of microbiome engineering, paving the way for novel applications in diverse fields. However, it is important to acknowledge the challenges that ML algorithms face, such as the limited availability of high-quality, large-scale data sets, the inherent complexity of biological systems, and the need for improved integration of experimental and computational methods. This perspective further discusses the future perspectives of the field, highlighting expected developments in data generation, algorithm development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. These advancements hold the key to unlocking the full potential of microbial communities for addressing pressing global challenges.