'Groundbreaking' cystic fibrosis drug developed

A pioneering treatment for cystic fibrosis has been developed, no doubt bringing hope to many using respite care who have the condition.

The drug is designed to treat the 'Celtic gene' in patients, according to the study carried out by Queen's University Belfast, the University of Ulster, the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and teams of researchers in Europe, USA and Australia.

It was found to significantly improve lung function, quality of life and reduce disease flare ups.

Dr Judy Bradley, from the University of Ulster said: "This is a ground breaking treatment because it treats the basic defect caused by the gene mutation in patients. Correcting the cells with this mutation shows that treatments aimed at the basic mutation can work leading to improvements in lung function and symptoms."

The 'Celtic gene' is so named due to its prevalence in Ireland.

According to NHS Choices, cystic fibrosis affects more than 8,500 children and young adults in the UK.

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