Cystic Fibrosis

CYSTIC FIBROSIS - A DISORDER OF MEMBRANE TRANSPORT

A great variety of proteins have roles in moving molecules and ions across cell membranes. Passive transport proteins permit certain substances to diffuse down concentration gradients by moving through the protein's interior. Active transport proteins use ATP energy to pump substances across the membrane against their concentration gradients. To investigate the importance of transport proteins, we will consider the effects of cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder in which there is a defect in a transport protein..

Activity

Part 1.

In this part of the activity you will visit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s web site to learn about the causes and symptoms of cystic fibrosis.

Use your browser to go to http://www.cff.org/home/

Use the information provided in the “About cystic fibrosis” section to answer the following questions:

1. What are the signs and symptoms of cystic fibrosis?
The signs of cystic fibrosis are frequent coughing that brings up phlegm, Dehydration, Salty tasting skin.
2. How common is this disorder?
About 1,00 new cases of this disorder are diagnosed each year. Also about 1 in every 25 people can get this disorder.
3. How is cystic fibrosis diagnosed?
Cystic fibrosis is diagnosed by chest X-rays or Lung Function Tests.
4. How is cystic fibrosis inherited? Does everyone who has a mutant gene for the protein have cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis is inherited by if the mom and dad have it and there is 25% that the child what will have CF and 50% chance that the child had the gene but has no symptoms and 25% that the child does not have the gene and no symptoms.
Part 2.

In this part of the activity you will read an article to learn more about cystic fibrosis.

Use your browser to go to:

http://resources.schoolscience.co.uk/MRC/3/page3.html

Use the information in this article to answer the following questions:

1. Explain the normal function of the protein that is defective in cystic fibrosis.

Its normal function is to control the flow of Chloride ions from the cell. In the lining cell of a person with CF, the vital Chloride channel is blocked.

2. What happens to this protein in CF patients and what are the consequences for the health of these individuals?

Its normal function is to control the flow of Chloride ions from the cell. In the lining cell of a person with CF, the vital Chloride channel is blocked.

Part 3.

In this part of the activity you will read about how cystic fibrosis is treated.

Use your browser to go to:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cystic-fibrosis/DS00287

Use the information in the different sections of the article to answer the following questions:

1. Explain at least 3 treatments for the symptoms of cystic fibrosis.

1: Medications: some are antibiotics, mucus thinning drugs or bromchodilators

2:Chest Physical Therapy: chest clapper, inflatable vest, breathing devices

3: Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Breathing strategies, Exercise training, Nutritional counseling

2. Discuss at least 3 ways for parents to help their children who have cystic fibrosis.

One way is that the parents could try all the "options" that are available to help CF. Another is supporting the child that has CF. A third way is making sure the child has plenty fluids and exercise. The parents can be a big help with exercise because they could play a game of basketball and just help the child. It also shows the child that the parent is willing to help with this decease.