Research on cystic fibrosis could help develop treatment
A new study finds people who suffer from cystic fibrosis have less ability to take in and use oxygen in their muscles, making it harder to exercise.
The study, conducted by Ryan Harris of the Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Regents University and Kevin McCully of the University of Georgia College of Education's kinesiology department, used a non-invasive method to determine oxidative capacity in muscles. This technology is less expensive than imaging technology such as an MRI, and can be repeated as often as needed without radiation exposure.
McCully says the study confirms that reduced oxidative capacity caused by defects in the mitochondria play a large role in muscle weakness often associated with cystic fibrosis.