Ludwig Engel Centre for Respiratory Research

We combine both laboratory research and clinical studies aimed at identifying the pathophysiological basis of respiratory and sleep disorders.

Diseases we research

• Sleep disordered breathing
• Cystic fibrosis
• Asthma
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Our research themes include:

• Sleep disordered breathing: We have an international reputation for researching the mechanisms underlying the occurrence of obstructed breathing during sleep, with the aim of improving the treatments available for this important disorder. We also study the health implications of obstructive sleep apnoea, including its possible links to cancer.
• Cystic fibrosis: We have been working on the nasal potential difference (NPD) technique, which can diagnose cystic fibrosis. We are part of the European CF Diagnostic Network which is examining different groups of patients and comparing the nasal potential difference recordings with the severity of their disease. 
• Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A major research interest of the Centre is the influence of mouth versus nose breathing on the occurrence of asthmatic symptoms. Our COPD research is focused on evaluation of pulmonary rehabilitation and outreach programs, and the development of new clinical programs to better manage severe breathlessness.

We have a very active clinical trials program and have been involved in many trials testing new clinical treatments across a spectrum of respiratory disorders.