Investigating how CFTR correctors affect potassium channels in cystic fibrosis
Official title: Modulation of Ca2+ -activated K+ channels by CFTR Correctors
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11158897 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a medication called VX-445, which helps people with cystic fibrosis, affects certain channels in the body that can cause side effects like headaches and anxiety, with the goal of finding better treatments for CF patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $551,433 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171413-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11158897 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, particularly those experiencing adverse effects from CFTR modulator therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cystic fibrosis or those not taking CFTR correctors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how CFTR correctors, which are medications designed to improve the function of a defective protein in cystic fibrosis (CF), influence calcium-activated potassium channels. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind adverse events experienced by some CF patients taking these medications, such as headaches and anxiety. By examining the effects of the CFTR corrector VX-445 on potassium channels in human bronchial epithelial cells, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to improved treatment strategies for CF patients. The approach involves laboratory experiments using primary human cells to assess the interactions between CFTR correctors and potassium channels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of adverse effects associated with CFTR correctors, ultimately improving the quality of life for cystic fibrosis patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of CFTR correctors, but the specific interactions with potassium channels are still being explored, making this a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
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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.