How cystic fibrosis medicines affect calcium‑activated potassium channels
Modulation of Ca2+ -activated K+ channels by CFTR Correctors
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11311890
This work explores whether CF medicines like elexacaftor change potassium channels in human cells and could cause side effects in people with cystic fibrosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11311890 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's point of view, researchers are testing how CFTR corrector drugs used in combinations like Trikafta alter calcium‑activated potassium (KCa) channels in human airway cells. The team uses primary human bronchial epithelial cells and laboratory electrophysiology and biochemical assays to measure changes in potassium and chloride currents after exposure to correctors such as VX‑445 (elexacaftor). Because these KCa channels are also found in nerves and blood vessels, the group will examine links between channel changes and reported side effects like headache, high blood pressure, and mood changes. The goal is to trace a biological mechanism that could explain why some people experience these adverse effects while others do not.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cystic fibrosis, especially those currently taking or considering CFTR modulators such as Trikafta, would be the most relevant candidates to provide samples or participate in follow‑up studies.
Not a fit: People without cystic fibrosis or those not exposed to CFTR modulators are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could explain certain side effects from CFTR modulator therapy and help guide safer use or the development of drugs with fewer adverse effects.
How similar studies have performed: CFTR modulators like Trikafta are clinically effective, but linking these drugs to KCa channel changes and the resulting adverse events is a relatively new and only partly explored idea.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DEVOR, DANIEL C — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: DEVOR, DANIEL C
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.