So it seemed like a natural cause to support, he said. Ellis and Moffitt learned of UF s research through the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, which has long backed the efforts here. Researchers at the University of Florida in Gainesville are performing some of the most cutting-edge cystic fibrosis research in the world, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation officials told Ellis in a recent letter. In particular, their expertise in CF-related lung inflammation may be unrivaled. Virella-Lowell, Jin and Spencer are seeking innovative ways of controlling the lung damage linked to bacterial infections in people with cystic fibrosis.
Cystic fibrosis is caused by one faulty gene.
A clinical trial under way at UF is testing the idea of inserting copies of a healthy gene into patients to treat the disease. In animal models, scientists are exploring an additional approach using different genes that may be able to curb lung inflammation, according to Dr. Terence Flotte, interim director of UF s Genetics Institute. While the scientists continue their medical attack against the disease, Ellis is gearing up for his next fund-raiser. She just turned 16, and she s doing fine, Ellis said. And now the average life span for people with cystic fibrosis is the early 30s.