Cystic fibrosis is caused by changes in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which helps control how salt moves in and out of cells lining the lungs and other organs. This salt movement draws water to the surface of these tissues, keeping mucus thin and slippery so it can clear out bacteria and debris. When the CFTR protein doesn’t work properly, less water reaches the surface, and the mucus becomes thick, sticky, and harder to clear — key features of CF.
Our primary focus at the Prenatal CFTR Modulator Therapy Service is to administer and closely manage prenatal CFTR modulator therapy — an advanced treatment that uses oral medications to help the faulty CFTR protein function more effectively. When started during pregnancy, this therapy has been shown to improve fetal health and reduce complications such as poor fetal growth, preterm birth, and organ damage after delivery.
This care is delivered by our multidisciplinary team, which includes pulmonologists with expertise in CF, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, fetal surgeons, pharmacists, nurses, genetic counselors, and social workers. Together, we provide coordinated care and support from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.
