Recent breakthrough in cystic fibrosis

Preventing painful inflammation caused by cystic fibrosis

The Children's Research Centre has pioneered a new treatment for the inflammation caused by diseases such as cystic fibrosis and chronic arthritis. Existing therapies have been successful in blocking the hormone that causes inflammation, called tumor necrosis factor or "TNF", but in doing so have also blocked TNF's health-promoting qualities, such as cancer prevention. Researchers at the Children's Research Centre have found a way to manipulate the way that TNF behaves in the body so that it retains its role in fighting tumors and infection, but also reduces inflammation in selected areas. Using a range of animal models which mimic chronic inflammatory disease, researchers have been able to prove the effectiveness of their new treatment. Unlike current therapies, this new treatment won't compromise the health of those suffering from arthritis, cystic fibrosis or chronic lung inflammatory disease, but rather will improve their general well-being.