CFTR and cystic fibrosis: Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, located on the long arm of chromosome 7.1 CFTR protein functions as an apical ion channel.1 CF has a range of severities, with airway disease being the main cause of morbidity and mortality.1 Defects in CFTR affect its ion transporting functions, leading to accumulation of sticky mucus on epithelial surfaces in affected organs, including the lungs, sinuses, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, sweat glands and reproductive tract.1