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Updated: Jan 15, 2026
15:12
Purification of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Protein Expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Published on: May 10, 2014
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Acquired cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator dysfunction
Michael Eisenhut1, Helen Wallace2
1Luton & Dunstable University Hospital, Lewsey Road, Luton, LU4 0DZ, UK. michael_eisenhut@yahoo.com.
Pflugers Archiv : European Journal of Physiology
|October 13, 2025
Summary
Dysfunctional cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) causes excessive fluid in the airways and lungs during infections and allergies. Restoring CFTR function may treat these common respiratory conditions.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Medicine
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Upper respiratory tract infections and allergic reactions cause rhinorrhoea, impacting quality of life.
- Pulmonary fluid accumulation in acute lung injury is a major cause of mortality.
- Both conditions are linked to the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence supporting CFTR dysfunction as the cause of rhinorrhoea and pulmonary edema.
- To introduce novel mechanisms of CFTR regulation in respiratory diseases.
- To discuss potential therapeutic interventions targeting CFTR.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on CFTR function in respiratory fluid balance.
- Analysis of cytokine and microRNA regulation of CFTR.
- Examination of CFTR's role in allergic and infectious respiratory conditions.
Main Results:
- CFTR dysfunction is hypothesized to underlie both rhinorrhoea and alveolar fluid accumulation.
- CFTR function is regulated by cytokines, vasodilatation, and microRNAs.
- Specific cytokines (IL-4) upregulate CFTR, while others (IL-1, IL-8) inactivate it via microRNA.
Conclusions:
- CFTR plays a critical role in regulating airway and alveolar fluid.
- Dysfunctional CFTR contributes to rhinorrhoea and pulmonary edema in common respiratory conditions.
- Targeting CFTR with inhibitors or activators offers potential therapeutic strategies.
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