Airway surface volume regulation

Abstract: Motivated by a genetical lung disease cystic fibrosis (CF), we are interested in understanding how the extracelllular nucleoti(si)de metabolism in the airway surface and ion and water transport across the epithelial cell membranes interact with each other to achieve the optimal airway surface liquid and thus, maintain its critical role for the airway clearance. In this project, both the details of nucleotide metabolism and ion and water transport are codified into mathematical frameworks and integrated together. Sensitivity analysis of the extracellular nucleotide metabolism model is being used to characterize the biochemical network and generate testable hypotheses. The model will be refined according to the experimental results with ultimate goal to produce a predictive model that will aid in the design of novel drug therapies for CF.

note: this work is in collaboration with Dr. Richard Boucher and Cystic Fibrosis Center at UNC.