Cystic fibrosis patients may benefit from repurposed approved drug

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Written by Catharine Paddock PhD
Published: Friday 3 June 2016
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www.medicalnewstoday.com...
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New research suggests that a drug already approved for the treatment of metabolic acidosis - where the body has too much acid - could be repurposed and used to treat airway disease in patients with cystic fibrosis. The drug showed enhanced ability to kill bacteria in the airways of pigs and mucus samples from human patients with cystic fibrosis.
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The mucus build-up is a result of a problem with transporting ions in and out of cells, which causes the affected tissue surfaces to become too acidic.
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In the lungs, if the airway surface liquid (ASL) becomes too acidic, it is less able to defend against bacteria and other pathogens.
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"We found that Tham aerosols increased ASL pH in vivo for at least 2 hours and enhanced bacterial killing," note the authors.

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THIS really sounds like it could improve the quality of life of CF patients.
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Gads what a horrid disease.
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I hope ATSers with loved ones or their own CF problems will investigate this and see if it's fitting for application in their cases.
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It sounds like there should be no delay in getting such treatment given that it's with a known drug already etc.
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What do ATSers around such CF patients think?
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May such help lengthen and improve the lives of those with CF.
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