CFTR-beyond the airways: Recent findings on the role of the CFTR channel in the pancreas, the intestine and the kidneys.

• CFTR inhibition by toxic factors is common in everyday life and may exacerbate pancreatitis. • CF-associated decrease in intestinal luminal fluidity may be ameliorated by apical Na+/ H + exchange inhibition. • Loss of CFTR function may reduce renal HCO 3 −secretion, causing metabolic alkalosis and reducing ventilatory drive. With increased longevity of patients suffering from cystic fibrosis, and widespread lung transplantation facilities, the sequelae of defective CFTR in other organs than the airways come to the fore. This minireview highlights recent scientific progress in the understanding of CFTR function in the pancreas, the intestine and the kidney, and explores potential therapeutic strategies to combat defective CFTR function in these organs. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]