Cystic fibrosis & Bronchiectasis
Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs but also impacts other organs such as the pancreas and intestines. It is caused by a defect in salt and water transport within cells, leading to the production of thick, sticky mucus. In the lungs, this results in chronic infections, persistent inflammation, and a progressive decline in lung function. Thanks to modern therapies, life expectancy for people with CF has improved significantly in recent decades; however, the disease still imposes a substantial burden on patients.
Research in Cystic fibrosis
Within the BREATH research network, scientists investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of cystic fibrosis across the entire lifespan. Pediatric pulmonology is closely integrated and collaborates with adult pulmonology to systematically study and understand disease progression from childhood into adulthood. A key focus lies on the causes of chronic airway inflammation and infection, as well as on dysfunctions of the epithelial barrier and immune defense. In addition, processes of tissue damage and regeneration are examined to better understand long-term disease trajectories.
Another major focus of BREATH research is the evaluation of new therapeutic approaches, including modulator-based and personalized treatment strategies. Clinical and translational studies help to better predict treatment responses across different age groups and to continuously improve patient care. Through the close integration of basic research, clinical research, and health services research, BREATH makes an important contribution to the long-term improvement of treatment for people with cystic fibrosis.
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease characterized by permanent dilation and damage of the bronchi. This impairs the natural clearance of the airways, leading to recurrent infections, chronic cough, and increased mucus production. Bronchiectasis can have various causes, including severe infections, congenital conditions, or immune system disorders. Once considered a rare disease, it is now increasingly diagnosed and represents a growing challenge for clinical care.
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease characterized by permanent dilation and damage of the bronchi. This impairs the natural clearance of the airways, leading to recurrent infections, chronic cough, and increased mucus production. Bronchiectasis can have various causes, including severe infections, congenital conditions, or immune system disorders. Once considered a rare disease, it is now increasingly diagnosed and represents a growing challenge for clinical care.
Research in Bronchiectasis
At BREATH, researchers investigate the diverse causes and mechanisms of bronchiectasis. A key focus lies on the interactions between chronic infection, inflammation, and structural changes in the airways. In addition, differences between various bronchiectasis subtypes are analyzed to better understand the pronounced clinical heterogeneity of the disease. An important component is PROGNOSIS, the German bronchiectasis registry, which systematically collects clinical data and enables scientific analysis. BREATH is also involved in the European EMBARC registry, contributing to international collaboration and data comparability.
The aim of BREATH research is to refine diagnostic criteria and identify new therapeutic targets. Clinical studies evaluate innovative treatment strategies as well as approaches to prevent infections and exacerbations. By integrating experimental research, clinical expertise, and health services research, BREATH contributes to improving long-term care for patients with bronchiectasis.
Dittrich, Anna-Maria Prof. Dr.
Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology – MHH
Hansen, Gesine Prof. Dr.
Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology – MHH
Li, Yang Prof. Dr.
Centre for Individualized Infection Medicine – HZI Brunswick and MHH
Munder, Antje PD Dr.
Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology – MHH
Rademacher, Jessica Prof. Dr.
Department of Pneumology and Infectious Disease – MHH
Ringshausen, Felix C. Prof. Dr.
Department of Pneumology and Infectious Disease – MHH
Schütz, Katharina PD Dr.
Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology – MHH
Stanke, Frauke PD Dr.
Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology – MHH
Tümmler, Burkhard Prof. Dr. Dr.
Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology – MHH
von Hardenberg, Sandra PD Dr.
Department of Human Genetics – MHH
