Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease: Mechanisms, Targets and Therapeutics

Cystic fibrosis (CF) refers to a type of genetic disease that affects the lungs, digestive system and other organs. This disease occurs when the protein that generates mucus fails to function normally. Respiratory symptoms caused by CF include persistent coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, along with other difficulties in breathing. Patients with CF display lung disease that is consistent with the breakdown of innate airway defense mechanisms. The diagnosis of CF is done by performing a sweat test, which determines the amount of salt present in the patient's body. CF has no known treatment options, but antibiotics that can be administered intravenously, breathed, or taken orally are used to manage this disease. A lung transplant may eventually be required, in case the lungs have suffered severe damage. This book provides comprehensive insights into cystic fibrosis. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field. Most of the topics introduced in this book cover mechanisms, targets and therapeutics for this lung disease.