New animal model offers insights into pancreatic disease and diabetes

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. The condition is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus that can clog airways and trap bacteria, leading to frequent lung infections and breathing difficulties. This same thick mucus also affects the pancreas, preventing enzymes from reaching the intestines to help break down and absorb food. People with CF often experience poor growth, weight gain issues, frequent respiratory infections, and other complications.

What makes CF particularly notable is that it is one of the most common life-shortening inherited conditions, especially among people of Northern European descent, affecting around 70,000 people worldwide.

In a research project, Dr. Jie Xu’s team investigated how CF rabbits naturally develop problems in their pancreas and blood sugar control, providing a deeper understanding of how the disease progresses and affects the body. To conduct their research, they created a specialized group of rabbits with cystic fibrosis using precise genetic engineering methods, specifically the CRISPR/Cas9 system…

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