Michael J. Welsh

My laboratory focuses on several aspects of cystic fibrosis (CF), a common lethal genetic disease. We are investigating the CF gene product, CFTR, to learn how it forms a chloride channel, how its activity is regulated, and how CF-associated mutations disrupt function. Most of the morbidity and mortality in CF results from chronic lung infections. To understand the pathogenesis of the lung disease we are investigating the innate immune system that defends the lung from bacterial challenge. The studies examine how CF compromises this defense system and how bacteria persist in the CF lung. We attempt to use knowledge from these studies to develop new CF treatments, including transfer of a normal CFTR cDNA to airway epithelia and interventions to enhance airway defense.