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Robbins Group

Human systems physiology: Respiratory, cardiovascular and metabolic function in response to stresses such as exercise and hypoxia

Our novel measures of lung function in youth (A), in older age (B) and in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (C)

Our research centres on human systems physiology. We are interested in the effects of stresses, such as exercise and hypoxia, on metabolism and on respiratory and cardiovascular function.

Technological innovation is vital to achieving breakthroughs in this area. We have a long track record in this. Recently we have developed an airway molecular flow sensor that uses laser absorption spectroscopy to analyse the gases in the airway. This allows us to make measurements that have simply not been possible before. As well as studying the physiology of healthy individuals, we are using it to study patients in critical care, and those with diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis. As well as developing new technologies, we also exploit new discoveries, made at the molecular and cellular level, in order to understand whole-body function better. Our most recent work here has related to iron homeostasis.

We are an outward looking group, with collaborative projects across the University of Oxford – in particular with the chemistry and engineering departments in the physical sciences, and with the clinical departments of medicine, anaesthesia and intensive care.

Much of the work within our group is either undertaken by graduate students working towards a doctorate or by early career postdoctoral scientists developing their careers. In many cases, the students are jointly supervised with other colleagues and this adds breadth to their research training. The laboratory has an international feel with students coming from many different countries. Recent students have been funded through Rhodes Scholarships, Marshall Scholarships, Felix Scholarships, Clarendon Bursaries, Wellcome Trust Studentships, as well as through funding arising from their native countries.

Our team

Collaborators

Jane Davies, the Royal Brompton, Imperial College London

Ian Pavord, Nuffield Department of Medicine

Nayia Petousi, Nuffield Department of Medicine

Grant Ritchie, Department of Chemistry  

NIHR Oxford BRC Respiratory theme

Selected publications

Introducing our technology for measurement in critical care and respiratory medicine

Full Version

Highlights

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