Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that typically affects the lungs, digestive tract and other organs. Caused by a defective gene that is inherited and passed from generation to generation, CF affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive juices. Fifty years ago, those suffering from CF had a life expectancy into the 30s, but recent advances have pushed that into the 50s, with some patients living into their 80s. While some treatment is available, there is currently no cure for CF. 
However, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and Department of Pediatrics have made it their mission to continue developing and improving clinical treatments for CF. The Cystic Fibrosis Research Center (CFRC) supports a broad spectrum of interactive, timely, and significant projects focusing on this mission.
The CFRC has been a receiver of ongoing support from the NIH and CFF for over twenty years, recently expanding in new directions, with the goal of promoting highly collaborative, interdisciplinary projects. The current canvas of research work has grown to include growing strengths in infectious mechanics and immune defense, adding to foundational strengths in ion transport and CFTR biology.
Respiratory Epithelial Biology is the core theme of our CFRC, which is broken down into four subtexts: (1) CFTR and ion transport, (2) the airway surface microenvironment and mucociliary clearance, (3) infections at the epithelial interface and (4) immune-epithelial cell defects that contribute to CF pathogenesis. From there, each of these focus points are explored through four research cores: a) CFTR and Ion Transport, b) Assays, c) Infection and Immunity, and d) Translational Research.
This complex approach to CF research ensures a cross-disciplinary approach to developing innovative solutions. Our research groups include faculty from Pitt and Carnegie Mellon University, all from dozens of different specialties and subspecialties across the spectrum of basic science, and clinical and translational research.
The challenges of CF are varied and complex, but with the ongoing efforts of the CFRC and collaborations within, researchers are confident in the developing science for better and more effective treatments. Find out more about the CFRC, its research, associated faculty, and recent publications on the Pitt Pediatrics website here, and at its own website here.