Microbiota, Mucus, and Modulators: Cystic Fibrosis Infection Pathogenesis in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Modulator Era - Takeaways - MDSpire
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The Role of Microbiota, Mucus, and Therapeutic Modulators in the Pathogenesis of Infections in Cystic Fibrosis During the Era of CFTR Modulator Treatments

  • By

  • Christina S Thornton

  • Drake C Bouzek

  • Lindsay J Caverly

  • December 17, 2025

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  • 1

    Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to impaired ion transport and chronic airway infections.

  • 2

    CF airway infections are polymicrobial, dominated by pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, causing lung damage.

  • 3

    CFTR modulators improve airway hydration and mucociliary clearance but do not eliminate chronic infections in most patients.

  • 4

    Chronic infections in CF are associated with accelerated lung function decline and increased mortality risk.

  • 5

    Diverse bacterial communities in CF airways decline in diversity over time, with traditional pathogens dominating as disease progresses.

Original Source(s)

Microbiota, Mucus, and Modulators: Cystic Fibrosis Infection Pathogenesis in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Modulator Era

  • by Christina S Thornton, Drake C Bouzek, Lindsay J Caverly

  • December 17, 2025

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