Case Number CH-008

Inventors: Horst Fischer, PhD and Beatte Illek, PhD

Abstract
This invention provides novel compositions and methods for therapy of cystic fibrosis. The compositions comprise one or more flavones and/or isoflavones capable of stimulating chloride transport in epithelial tissues. Therapeutic methods involve the administration, either orally or via inhalation, of such compositions to a patient afflicted with cystic fibrosis and/or other condition responsive to stimulation of chloride transport.

Cystic fibrosis, affects the secretory epithelia of a variety of tissues, altering the transport of water, salt and other solutes into and out of the blood stream. In particular, the ability of epithelial cells in the airways, pancreas and other tissues to transport chloride ions, and accompanying sodium and water, is severely reduced in cystic fibrosis patients, resulting in respiratory, pancreatic and intestinal ailments. Current treatments for cystic fibrosis generally focus on controlling infection through antibiotic therapy and promoting mucus clearance by use of postural drainage and chest percussion. However, even with such treatments, frequent hospitalization is often required as the disease progresses.

Advantage
The potential for this new therapy is to increase chloride ion conductance in airway epithelial tissues of the airways, the intestine, the pancreas and other exocrine glands, and for cystic fibrosis therapy.

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