Latest Research
February 2008
Scientists Identify Key Target to Kill Cystic Fibrosis Bug
Scientists have identified a weakness in the armour that protects the Burkholderia Cenocepacia bacterium from the effects of antibiotics. A team of researchers has identified a key sugar required for the pathogen’s resistance to most antibiotics. It is hoped that by preventing the synthesis of this sugar, the bacteria will become less resistant to antibiotic regimes. For further information visit:
http://www.biotech-weblog.com/50226711/scientists_identify_key_target_to_kill_cystic_fibrosis_bug.php
High Altitude Research to Benefit CF Patients
A team of doctors has scaled new medical heights after reaching the summit of Everest and performing high altitude experiments. The “Caudwell Xtreme Everest Team” took blood samples at 8,400m to examine how the body reacts to hypoxia or oxygen deficiency. Studies of the samples are set to help manage future patients suffering from oxygen deficiency, including people with Cystic Fibrosis. More details at:
http://www.lse.co.uk/ShowStory.asp?story=PN2437851I&news_headline=doctors_scale_everest_for_research
Pharmaxis Begins Phase III Cystic Fibrosis Trial
Pharmaxis has enrolled the first patient in its international Phase III clinical trial, evaluating Bronchitol in Cystic Fibrosis sufferers. Phase III is being conducted initially in 40 hospitals across Australia, the UK and Ireland and is the final clinical step before Pharmaxis seeks approval to market Bronchitol for CF. For more information go to:
Breathing for Better Lung Health
Researchers at the University of North Carolina have discovered that the rhythmic motion of the lungs during normal breathing is a critical regulator of the clearance of bacteria and other noxious materials. It is believed that knowledge gained in these studies will be useful in developing novel therapeutic regimes to increase mucous clearance in the lungs of CF patients. For more information visit:
http://www.spiritindia.com/health-care-news-articles-8354.html
Biota Finds Success with Cold Remedy
An antivirus that attacks the major cause of the common cold has passed the second stage of clinical trials. A safe and effective treatment for the common cold would be a major breakthrough for people with CF, for whom the virus can trigger events leading to serious illness and hospitalization. For more information:
http://www.news.com.au/business/story/0,23636,21446685-462,00.html
