Legalomics: why microbiology matters to the promotion of just societies.

Abstract

Despite profound socioeconomic and ecological consequences, criminal justice remains an overlooked dimension of sustainability. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 calls for promoting inclusive societies and ensuring justice for all. Yet the SDG 16 framework largely ignores the biological and structural determinants of behavior related to justice involvement. This perspective article argues that microbial ecology plays a foundational role in cognition and behavior-factors central to justice outcomes. Advances in neuromicrobiology and omics technologies show how microbial disruptions linked to poverty and environmental factors may increase behavioral risks and reinforce inequality. We introduce the legalome concept-the systemic application of microbiome sciences and related omics technologies to forensic and legal psychology. From auto-brewery syndrome to microbial signatures tied to aggression, impulsivity, and neuropsychiatric conditions, evidence is mounting that microbiota-brain interactions have forensic relevance. Yet justice systems often remain rooted in prescientific notions of free will and blame. Carceral institutions often exacerbate dysbiosis through poor nutrition, social isolation, circadian disruptions, acoustic stress, and overall deprivation-further entrenching risk and undermining rehabilitation. We argue that SDG 16 should expand to reflect this evolving science. Integrating microbial ecology into justice reform offers a framework for prevention and healing-bridging sustainability, equity, and dignity.