Evolutionary Pathophysiology and Mummy Studies Group ☛ Prof. Frank Rühli, PD Patrick Eppenberger

The Evolutionary Pathophysiology and Mummy Studies Group investigates human health and physiology in ancient times at individual and population level and how to best assess it.

Presentation of the Group

Our research group studies ancient, historical, and modern human populations to uncover the evolutionary basis of human health and physiology. We are pioneering the use of diagnostic biomedical imaging and the integration of diverse chemical, paleomolecular, and microscopic analyses to bridge the understanding of health issues from the past to the present.
We analyze preserved ancient human soft tissues, including whole mummies and organ samples, using advanced diagnostic techniques such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), micro-CT, and portable X-ray. This analysis helps diagnose and interpret diseases such as cardiovascular disease or cancer in ancient specimens with improved reliability and minimal invasiveness.
Our latest endeavor is to study the evolutionary trajectories of human red blood cells, specifically the ion channel PIEZO1 and its variants in humans, primates, and ancient hominins. This project is central to understanding the evolutionary trajectories of human red blood cells and the potential implications for contemporary medical practice.