DZL Junior Researcher Receives Funding to Improve Cystic Fibrosis Therapy

The research group led by Dr. rer. med. Andrew Tony-Odigie, a DZL junior researcher at the TLRC site and a researcher in medical microbiology and hygiene at Heidelberg University Hospital, has been awarded €148,330 by the German Cystic Fibrosis Association. Dr. Tony-Odigie and his team are investigating how commensal bacteria and their metabolic products, particularly short-chain fatty acids, can support CFTR modulator therapy in cystic fibrosis.

The research focuses on the interactions between the modulator therapy and beneficial bacteria, as well as their potential synergistic effects. Chronic lung infections, especially those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, remain a challenge even with successful ETI therapy (Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor).

The project aims to develop new treatment options to better address these infections. It involves three work packages: analyzing interactions between commensal bacteria and CFTR modulators, investigating the role of short-chain fatty acids, and examining interactions in currently untreatable CFTR mutations. The findings could lead to new therapies that more effectively treat chronic infections and improve the quality of life for cystic fibrosis patients.

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