Lung infections are a common symptom of cystic fibrosis, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most prevalent. While physicians can treat this infection using antibiotics, they do not yet understand its role within lung disease. Because of this, researchers at the University of Warwick led an investigation into the best methods of treatment that allow the lowest amount of antibiotics being used.

About Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that is characterized by progressive damage to the respiratory and digestive systems. Those with cystic fibrosis do not have the slippery mucus that is normally found in the lungs. Instead they have thick and sticky mucus which builds up in their system. This buildup causes clogs in the airways, which then traps bacteria and causes breathing problems, infections, lung damage, and respiratory failure. It can also block digestive enzymes, which makes it difficult to absorb nutrients. Cystic fibrosis is a recessive disorder, meaning that the mutated gene must be passed down by both parents. The gene responsible for this condition affects the protein that regulates salt movement. The mutation in the gene varies in severity as well.

Symptoms of cystic fibrosis affect the respiratory and digestive systems. They include persistent coughing and wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty exercising, frequent lung infections, stuffy noses, trouble with gaining weight, constipation, male infertility, salty-tasting skin, and exercise intolerance.

Lung Infections and CF

Through the use of synthetic mucus and pig lungs, researchers were able to find that S.aureus prefers to colonize the mucus rather than the tissue of the lungs. This goes against prior findings that utilized mouse models; these studies found that the bacteria invades the lung tissue. However, the mouse models were known to be untrustworthy, as they tend to result in abscesses, which are extremely rare in people with CF.

Now that researchers are aware of S.aureus’  actual tendencies, they can create the best treatment plan for it. This finding has opened up doors for the future treatment of lung infections in cystic fibrosis; doctors can stop using the inappropriate amount of antibiotics. This leads to less resources wasted and better patient outcomes.

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