Epigenetic Markers As A Predictor Of Lung Disease Severity In Cystic Fibrosis

Abstract

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem disease caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Lung disease which is the major source of morbidity and mortality in CF, begins in infancy and persists and progresses in the first years of life. The most sensitive measure of CF lung disease is computed tomography (CT) and the majority of children show evidence of bronchiectasis, which represents irreversible structural lung disease, by five years of age. The rate with which lung disease develops and progresses varies greatly between people with CF. Accurate prediction of future lung disease severity in people with CF would facilitate significant improve..