Understanding how being a carrier of cystic fibrosis affects respiratory infections
Estimating the risk for and severity of respiratory infections attributable to CFTR heterozygosity
This study is looking into whether people who carry a single copy of the CFTR gene mutation might be more likely to get respiratory infections like sinusitis and pneumonia, so we can better understand how this could affect the health of millions of CF carriers in the U.S.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11056690 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential increased risk of respiratory infections in individuals who are carriers of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene mutation. It aims to determine if having one copy of the CFTR mutation, which is traditionally thought to be harmless, may actually lead to a higher incidence of respiratory issues such as sinusitis and pneumonia. By analyzing existing population data, the study seeks to quantify the burden of respiratory infections attributable to the CF carrier state. This could provide valuable insights into the health implications for millions of CF carriers in the United States.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are identified as carriers of the CFTR mutation, particularly those with a history of respiratory infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not carry the CFTR mutation or have no history of respiratory infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis carriers, potentially improving patient care.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have suggested that CF carriers may be at increased risk for respiratory infections, indicating that this research builds on emerging findings rather than being entirely novel.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Polgreen, Philip M. — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Polgreen, Philip M.
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.