DZL Researchers Receive €19,000 Grant for SLC26A9 Research in Cystic Fibrosis

A research team led by DZL Academy Fellow Dr. Anita Balázs (Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin) and DZL principal investigator Dr. Frauke Stanke (Hannover Medical School) has received a €19,000 grant from the German Cystic Fibrosis Association (Mukoviszidose e.V.). The team is investigating the role of the chloride transporter SLC26A9 in cystic fibrosis research, focusing specifically on how the transporter, produced by the SLC26A9 gene, interacts with the CFTR channel and the impact these interactions have on disease progression.

SLC26A9 plays a central role in ion and fluid secretion in epithelial tissues affected by cystic fibrosis, such as in the airways and pancreas. Early studies suggest that the SLC26A9 gene may be a modifier of the disease, influencing its severity. The goal of the current research is to better understand the molecular mechanisms of SLC26A9 in order to develop potential new therapeutic approaches.

A key aspect of this research is the development of a specific antibody against SLC26A9 to detect the protein at the cellular level and investigate its function. This antibody, developed in collaboration with the company Eurogentec, could not only advance basic research but also open up new therapeutic possibilities.

For more information on the research funding from Mukoviszidose e.V., visit:

Mukoviszidose-Forschung: die Rolle des Chloridtransporters SLC26A9 besser verstehen | Mukoviszidose e.V. Bundesverband Cystische Fibrose (CF)