Lay summary
Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are a group of conditions that cause lung scarring. Breathlessness during exercise is almost universal in ILD patients, yet we have limited treatment options available. To address this, we need to improve our understanding of the mechanisms of breathlessness. Studies reveal that receptors in the neck, lungs and muscles may be involved in producing breathlessness. However, there are few such studies in ILD patients. This project will explore the role of these receptors in breathlessness in ILD, through a series of tests involving patients and healthy volunteers. The findings could lead to the development of new treatments to improve the quality of life for people with this debilitating condition.