Cystic Fibrosis Modulator Therapies: Bridging Insights from CF to other Membrane Protein Misfolding Diseases

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder resulting from mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, leading to a faulty CFTR protein. Dysfunctional CFTR causes chloride ion imbalance, resulting in dense mucus accumulation in various organs, particularly the lungs. CF treatments focus on symptom management and addressing CFTR's functional defects. Notably, development of CFTR modulator therapies has significantly advanced CF treatment. These drugs target CFTR protein structural defects induced by mutations, restoring its function and improving CF symptoms. VX-770, a CFTR potentiator, and CFTR correctors like VX-809, VX-661, and VX-445, have gained FDA approval and widespread clinical use, greatly enhancing the health and survival of many CF patients. However, some CFTR mutations lack effective targeted therapies, leaving approximately 6% of CF patients without suitable options. CFTR modulator therapies have proven essential for combating the underlying causes of protein misfolding diseases, serving as a blueprint for similar treatments in other membrane protein misfolding diseases. This review explores current and future CFTR modulator therapies, and applications of established paradigms to membrane protein misfolding diseases. Ongoing research and innovation hold the potential for further improvements in CF management and the treatment of protein misfolding diseases.