New Finding May Prevent Deadly Infections for Cystic Fibrosis Patients

A researcher with the Canadian Bacterial Diseases Network (CBDN) has revealed a new biochemical approach that may block the onset of chronic infections which kill most cystic fibrosis patients.

Sufferers of cystic fibrosis usually succumb to a particular type of bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which invades and weakens their lungs. With their breathing pathways already clogged by an excessive buildup of mucus, the additional stress of bacterial infection often proves fatal. The bacteria enter the body through the mouth, where they stick to the epithelial cells lining that region. Secured there, P. aeruginosa can then reproduce in sufficient numbers to mount a successful assault on the lungs. But the introduction of an inexpensive and nontoxic form of sugar could stop the bacteria from attaching to these epithelial cells. Denied the chance to establish themselves within the body, any subsequent infections would be thwarted and the lives of many cystic fibrosis patients could be extended.

Dr. David Speert, Head of Infectious and Immunological Diseases at the University of British Columbia and B.C. Children’s Hospital, has demonstrated the possibility of this kind of treatment. His work has focussed on the action of Dextran, a class of glucose compounds developed about 50 years ago as a blood substitute. In collaboration with Polydex Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Speert was originally considering Dextran as a means of enhancing the function of macrophages, white blood cells that play a key role in the body’s immune response. He observed no enhancement, but did note how Dextran inhibited bacteria from attaching themselves to the macrophages.

A patent application for the use of Dextran to treat patients with cystic fibrosis has been filed by Dr. Speert and dextran inventor Thomas Usher. The next stage in the work will explore the clinical effectiveness of this potential therapy.

For more infromation please visit the Canadian Bacterial Diseases Network Web site.