Examining Sound, Light, and Vibrations as Tools to Manage Microbes and Support Holobionts, Ecosystems, and Technologies

Abstract

The vast array of interconnected microorganisms across Earth’s ecosystems and within holobionts has been called the “Internet of Microbes.” Bacteria and archaea are masters of energy and information collection, storage, transformation, and dissemination using both “wired” and wireless (at a distance) functions. Specific tools affecting microbial energy and information functions offer effective strategies for managing microbial populations within, between, and beyond holobionts. This narrative review focuses on microbial management using a subset of physical modifiers of microbes: sound and light (as well as related vibrations). These are examined as follows: (1) as tools for managing microbial populations, (2) as tools to support new technologies, (3) as tools for healing humans and other holobionts, and (4) as potential safety dangers for microbial populations and their holobionts. Given microbial sensitivity to sound, light, and vibrations, it is critical that we assign a higher priority to the effects of these physical factors on microbial populations and microbe-laden holobionts. We conclude that specific sound, light, and/or vibrational conditions are significant therapeutic tools that can help support useful microbial populations and help to address the ongoing challenges of holobiont disease. We also caution that inappropriate sound, light, and/or vibration exposure can represent significant hazards that require greater recognition.

Microbes and Sustainable Living: Focus on Electric and Magnetic Fields

“…If electric and magnetic fields are particularly important for microbe community status, these are not the only physical fields to consider. In prior reviews, we considered the microbe-modifying effects of sound, light, and vibrations [21] as well as subtle energies associated with ancient and alternative health practices [20]. There is a broad spectrum of tools at our disposal to protect microbes as well as holobionts.…”

“…In a series of recent articles, we reviewed the effects of various overt and subtle physical fields [20] on microbes including the key factors of sound, light, and vibrations [21]. In this present narrative review, we extend this consideration to examine two of the most fundamental features of microbes that are critical for the functioning of society, earth's ecology, and human holobiont wellness: the electrical and magnetic properties of microbes and their responses to changes in electric and magnetic fields.…”