SPEC POINT 2.14

Question 1

What is cystic fibrosis?

Answer 1

A recessive genetic disorder of the cell membrane, where abnormally thick and stick mucus is produced in the body’s passageways

Question 2

What causes cystic fibrosis?

Answer 2

A mutation in the CFTR gene which leads to production of non functional chloride ion channel proteins, reducing the movement of water via osmosis into the mucus

Question 3

What impacts does cystic fibrosis have on the respiratory system?

Answer 3

1. cilia unable to move thick and sticky mucus so microorganisms are not removed from the lungs and lung infections occur more frequently
2. mucus builds up in the lungs and can block airways, limiting gas exchange
3. SA for gas exchange reduced, causing respiratory issues

Question 4

What impacts does cystic fibrosis have on the digestive system?

Answer 4

can block pancreatic duct, preventing digestive enzymes from entering the small intestine, meaning key nutrients may not be available for absorption

Question 4

What impacts does cystic fibrosis have on the reproductive system?

Answer 4

1. mucus can cause fertility issues
2. in men: tubes of testes blocked, preventing sperm reaching penis
3. in women: thickened cervical mucus can prevent sperm reaching the oviduct to fertilise an egg