When Evolution Hurts

Thursday, March 2, Harvard University Professor of Human Evolutionary Biology Terence D. Capellini hosts this hybrid lecture. The ability to walk upright on two feet is a physical trait that distinguishes modern humans from their early ancestors. While the evolution of bipedalism has contributed to success as a species, it has also limited the evolution of other features and increased risk for certain diseases. Capellini will discuss the genetic research that is helping scientists better understand the relationship between bipedalism and risk of developing knee osteoarthritis—a degenerative disease that afflicts at least 250 million people worldwide. By understanding the evolutionary history and genetics of this condition, preventive screenings and potential treatments may be developed. This free program is presented by Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, Harvard Museum of Natural History and Harvard Museums of Science & Culture. Free event parking is available at the 52 Oxford Street Garage.

Image credit: Tasha McAbee, Department of Orthopedics at Boston Children's Hospital