Research Programs
In 2009-2010, the CCFF is investing nearly $6 million to fund 55 promising research projects, as well as 50 fellows and students. Researchers are attacking cystic fibrosis on many fronts within two broad categories, which may also add insights into other diseases:
Fixing the Basic Defect
Some research programs focus on what goes wrong in the cell and how it can be fixed. For example, some of our investigators are studying the defective protein that results in abnormally thick mucus, in order to correct the protein in the cell. The ultimate goal of this area of research is to find a cure for cystic fibrosis.
Treating Symptoms and Improving the Quality of Life
Other research initiatives take aim at alleviating the everyday problems caused by cystic fibrosis by developing treatments for the symptoms and complications of the disease. For example, many CCFF-funded researchers are studying various bacteria that cause dangerous lung infections in people with CF with the goal of developing improved medications.
Insights into Other Diseases
Cystic fibrosis is a complex disease that affects many organs. Because CF research is very diverse, research findings are applicable to a number of diseases. For example, advances in ‘basic’ research may have implications for epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, and research into the symptoms of CF could be applied to HIV/AIDS and asthma, among others.
For details, see:
Hope Through Progress: Clinical & Scientific Research 2010-2011
Investing in Research and Care
Reviewed/updated: 2010-05-21
