囊性纤维化 CF

Mutations in the CFTR gene cause cystic fibrosis, a condition in which the cells that line the passageways of the lungs, pancreas, and other organs produce mucus that is unusually thick and sticky. Other genetic and environmental factors likely influence the severity of the condition.

This defective CFTR gene causes the body to produce abnormally thick and sticky fluid, called mucus. Mucus then builds up in the breathing passages of the lungs and in the pancreas, making respiration extremely cumbersome.

Cystic fibrosis is inherited; meaning it is passed down from the parents when the child inherits one normal CF gene from one parent, and an mutated CF gene from the other.

Research suggests that CF occurs at different rates depending on race; it is estimated to affect approx., 1/3,300 white births, 1/15,300 black births, and 1/32,000 Asian American births.