Respiratory diseases pose a significant global health burden. Despite advancements in diagnostic techniques and our understanding of the relationship between lung structure, function, and the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying various respiratory diseases, there remains a need for effective interventions and treatments.

Recent technological advancements have introduced new lung function tests and parameters, more realistic in-vitro and in-vivo models, and detailed in-silico models that are able to encompass a detailed morphometrically-accurate bronchial tree and alveolar structure. Combining these innovations can provide novel and powerful tools to increase our understanding of disease pathophysiology and improve treatment strategies, opening the way for personalized medicine approaches such as digital twins.

This school aims to provide an overview of these cutting-edge developments, focusing on technologies for assessing physiological variables and methods for interpreting results through in vivo and in silico models in a highly transdisciplinary approach.

Key topics include:

• Advanced methods for assessing lung function – Exploring methodologies such as oscillometry, gas washout techniques, and advanced imaging to enhance the precision of lung morphology and functional evaluation;
• Respiratory system modeling for describing in silico the full complexity of the lung, from the mechanical properties of airways and lung parenchyma through cellular processes to the interdependence of individual elements, combining physiology and biology with morphometry using mathematical models;  
• Translational applications in clinical practice – Showcasing how these advancements drive progress in understanding lung diseases and their treatments by providing novel diagnostic approaches and tools for individualizing therapies.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand the current limitations and opportunities in respiratory diagnostics and modelling;
• Gain exposure to state-of-the-art measurement and simulation tools;
• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration and research ideation across physiology, engineering, and clinical domains.

This school offers a unique opportunity to bridge engineering and clinical science in the study of respiratory function. Participants will gain exposure to cutting-edge techniques such as oscillometry, in-silico modeling, and advanced imaging, and apply them in practical scenarios through group work and expert-led sessions. By emphasizing real-world clinical applications, this program supports the training of the next generation of researchers and clinicians driving personalized respiratory medicine.