Saluzzo F, Riberi L, Messore B, Loré NI, Esposito I, Bignamini E, De Rose V. CFTR Modulator Therapies: Potential Impact on Airway Infections in Cystic Fibrosis.
Cells 2022;
11:cells11071243. [PMID:
35406809 PMCID:
PMC8998122 DOI:
10.3390/cells11071243]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by mutations in the gene encoding for the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR) protein, expressed on the apical surface of epithelial cells. CFTR absence/dysfunction results in ion imbalance and airway surface dehydration that severely compromise the CF airway microenvironment, increasing infection susceptibility. Recently, novel therapies aimed at correcting the basic CFTR defect have become available, leading to substantial clinical improvement of CF patients. The restoration or increase of CFTR function affects the airway microenvironment, improving local defence mechanisms. CFTR modulator drugs might therefore affect the development of chronic airway infections and/or improve the status of existing infections in CF. Thus far, however, the full extent of these effects of CFTR-modulators, especially in the long-term remains still unknown. This review aims to provide an overview of current evidence on the potential impact of CFTR modulators on airway infections in CF. Their role in affecting CF microbiology, the susceptibility to infections as well as the potential efficacy of their use in preventing/decreasing the development of chronic lung infections and the recurrent acute exacerbations in CF will be critically analysed.
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