Cystic fibrosis is a disease that affects the secretory glands such as the mucus and sweat glands. It is known to mostly effect the liver, the pancreas, sinuses, and sex organs. It can not be cured, but can be treated.
A. Cystic fibrosis has many symptoms. This includes abnormally salty skin, constant coughing with potential phlegm, lots of lung infections, and in some cases difficult bowel movements.
B. It is inherited via the passed down faulty recessive genes CFTR from parents. At most occurrences, the parents themselves do not have CF. Both males and females can have cystic fibrosis. CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductor) is a protein that regulates the movement of salt and water in the body.
Using a Punnet Square, one may determine the chance for CF to occur in their offspring. It is a 1:2:1 genotypic ratio. One child will have two regular CFTR genes, two will have one faulty gene and a regular CFTR gene, and another will have both faulty CFTR genes.
C. The signs can be seen as early as a couple months after birth.
D. It can be expressed by different scenarios. In some cases, heart rate increases, in others, dehydration occurs.
E. Prenatal screenings can be done to detect if the child's CFTR genes are normal. Amniocentesis, where doctors will put a needle into the uterus to test the fluid within the sac, is one example.
F. Blood or saliva samples may be tested to discover if a parent is a carrier of faulty CFTR genes.
G. Yes, it can be changed to aid the patient of the disorder. By guaranteeing the patient is out of dust particles, or anything that can clog the respiratory tract.
"Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - RESEARCH OVERVIEW." Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - Home. Web. 23 Mar. 2010.
"NHLBI Diseases and Conditions Index." National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Web. 23 Mar. 2010.
Video Link -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6v5o9AzjH6Q
Quiz
1. What is cystic fibrosis?
2. Name two symptoms of cystic fibrosis.
3. Can cystic fibrosis be cured? Treated?
4. How early are the signs for cystic fibrosis?
5. Can one be tested for faulty CFTR genes? How?
