A gene (NM 000492) 30 years ago was associated with the syndrome of CF and within 2 years of its identification, it was cloned and its product was identified as a plasma membrane bound cyclic-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) sensitive anion channel; the expression of which could correct ion transport in CF airway cells,29 as a result, it was called the CFTR. This evidence concerns the gene CFTR and cystic fibrosis.