**New Research on the Importance of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Function for Optimal Neutrophil Activity**

Michelle M. White, Fatma Gargoum, Niall Browne, Killian Hurley, Noel G. McElvaney and Emer P. Reeves

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/60645

### **Abstract**

Despite tremendous recent advances in our understanding of the molecular and cel‐ lular basis of cystic fibrosis (CF), there remains a paradox of why recruited neutro‐ phils fail to eradicate bacterial infections in the airways of individuals with CF. The focus of this chapter is on new research authenticating the CF neutrophil as a key player in disease pathogenesis. Studies specifying intrinsic abnormalities due to a lack of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) function, along with reports indicating reprogrammed cell activity secondary to chronic bacterial infection and inflammation, will be discussed.

**Keywords:** cystic fibrosis, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, neutrophil function
