Hypoxia induced cellular responses to understand pathological changes in chronic lung disorders

Hypoxia is common in chronic lung disorders. Ongoing remodelling processes, such as alterations in airway, vascular or parenchymal structures may impair gas exchange in alveoli resulting in hypoxic conditions with a number of systemic complications. Patients with COPD may develop a chronic alveolar hypoxia, and often hypoxemia as well. This study will highlight the importance of hypoxia exposure in chronic lung diseases. Examining cellular responses that are induced by hypoxia may result in a greater understanding of the pathological mechanisms driving the progression of severe lung diseases. The outcome of this project will thereby open up new mechanistically insights of pathological tissue remodelling and potential therapeutic targets for patients with chronic lung disorders.