The relationship between shape and function is a cutting-edge research question in biology. While it is well accepted that anatomical structures are intricately linked to their functions, the precise nature of this relationship, particularly in the context of human evolution, remains insufficiently understood. In the context of the respiratory system, the influence of torso size and shape on modern human breathing kinematics, as well as the evolution of this relationship in the hominin lineage, remains poorly understood.

To address this issue, this project proposes a novel methodological approach that combines Optoelectronic Plethysmography (OEP) with 4D Geometric Morphometrics (4DGM). The use of OEP allows the non-invasive volumetric study of breathing patterns, and thus, the breathing motion of the subjects of study is not influenced by measuring devices (such as classical spirometers). This is of vital importance in clinics to measure spontaneous breathing, but also from an evolutionary approach, which tests for a relationship between shape (of the chest wall) and function (breathing kinematics). This work is pioneer in analysing OEP results with the mathematical analysis of shape through time, with the purpose of filling a gap of knowledge in evolutionary anthropology and providing further a methodological tool of importance in clinical research.

This research will provide new insights in the importance of translational studies such as this, which develops a new methodology that can help both unravel evolutionary questions about the functional anatomy of the respiratory system and understand the mechanical principles of breathing from a clinical context.