Being able to walk upright on two feet is a physical trait that distinguishes modern humans from our early ancestors. While the evolution of bipedalism has contributed to our success as a species, it has also limited the evolution of other features and increased our risk for certain diseases. Capellini discusses the genetic research that is helping scientists better understand the relationship between bipedalism and our 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.

Free event parking at the 52 Oxford Street Garage.

Presented by the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, the Harvard Museum of Natural History and the Harvard Museums of Science & Culture

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