Hi Sherlock,
You may be interested in exploring this thread
http://forums.phoenixrising.me/index.php?threads/hair-mineral-testing.15099/
which in part relates to inability to move Iron to bone marrow, leading to over-production of Zinc Protoporphyrins incorporating lead, at the expense of Hemoglobin production, leading to lowered ability of red blood cells to carry & deliver O2.
Low Manganese...effect on ER stuctures. Accumulation & trapping of Iron & Copper in liver.
Depleted B2 Riboflavin stores due to fortification of foods with Vitamins & dis-proportionate supplementation of Vitamins & Minerals, poor diet, lack of variety, lack of whole foods, malabsorption, eating foods that block absorption.
Impact of low B2 Riboflavin on mitochondrial function...ATP production etc
Production of proteins relying on functional liver
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proteins_produced_and_secreted_by_the_liver
Other things that I can think of are all things dealt with by Respiratory Physicians & Allergist/Immunologists. My Resp. Phys. for example said it's harder to breathe lying down. I have mild asthma, but major chemical sensitivities, food allergies & intolerances that impact on breathing. Vascular issues can also impact on breathing. How much O2 is in the air is also relevant. What noxious gases may be present? Do you have obstructive or central sleep apnoea? What metabolic issues are impacting breathing? Our general muscle weakness also impacts our ability to breathe.
It's a good topic!!! The papers would be endless!