Scientists Develop New Cystic Fibrosis Drug

The study found a significant improvement in lung function and a reduction in disease flare-ups in those receiving the treatment.

An international team of researchers has developed a new drug for cystic fibrosis sufferers. The drug will be submitted for licensing later this year.

VX-770 targets people with the 'celtic gene', a genetic mutation particularly common in patients with the condition.

The study, which was led by Queen's University in Belfast and involved researchers in Europe, the US and Australia, found a significant improvement in lung function and a reduction in disease flare-ups in those receiving the treatment.

VX-770 works by opening the defective channel in lungs cells of people with cystic fibrosis. It is the first treatment aimed at this basic defect to show an effect.