Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive
disease. It is caused by mutations in the CFTR (cystic fibrosis
transmembrane conductance regulator) gene.
For people living with CF, the mucus in the lungs is thicker than
normal. This thick mucus can build up in the airways, allowing germs to
thrive and become a source of infection and inflammation. Inflammation
is caused by your immune system's response to something harmful, and
inflammation can lead to decreased lung function.