Cystic Fibrosis :: essays research papers

Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis, is a genetic discommode of the exocrine glands, affecting children and young people median survival is 25 years in females and 30 years in males. It is caused by a genetic abnormality in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene that results in the disruption of chloride transfer across cell membranes. As a consequence, chloride ions realise up in the cells of the lungs and other organs. Water stays inside the cells to disregard the chloride rather than being drawn out of the cells by normal chloride drive port and the normal secretions of the organs thicken. Mucus in the exocrine glands becomes thick and uneasy and eventually blocks the ducts of these glands (especially in the pancreas, lungs, and colored), forming cysts. The disease also causes the sweat glands to secrete spendthrift salt, causing heat prostration in hot weather. Symptoms, which vary check to the severity of the condition and the glands involved, include a diste nded abdomen diarrhea bulky, disgusting stools and malnutrition. Medical problems include nasal polyps and sinus disease, repeated respiratory infections, infertility, liver disease, and diabetes. Diagnosis is confirmed by a sweat test or measurement of transmembrane potential. Treatment consists of dietary adjustment (low fat&8212high calorie) and the plaque of vitamins, pancreatin, and antibiotics to ward off secondary infections. Special measures are necessary to belittle the viscosity of pulmonary secretions aerosol application of recombinant human DNA, an enzyme that digests the sticky superfluous cellular DNA that helps form these viscous secretions, was approved in 1993. In some cases lung transplantation is helpful. The identification of the abnormal gene (1989) paved the way for gene therapy aimed at altering the genetic structure by transferring to the unhurried cells with normal CFTR genes.