Nasal potential difference measurements to assess CFTR ion channel activity

Methods Mol Biol. 2011:741:69-86. doi: 10.1007/978-1-61779-117-8_6.

Abstract

The Nasal potential difference measurement is used to measure the voltage across the nasal epithelium, which results from transepithelial ion transport and reflects in part CFTR function. The electrophysiologic abnormality in cystic fibrosis was first described 30 years ago and correlates with features of the CF phenotype. NPD measurement is an important in vivo research and diagnostic tool, and is used to assess the efficacy of new treatments such as gene therapy and ion transport modulators. This chapter will elaborate on the electrophysiological principles behind the test, the equipment required, the methods, and the analysis of the data.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cystic Fibrosis / metabolism
  • Cystic Fibrosis / pathology
  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Potentials*
  • Nasal Mucosa / cytology*
  • Nasal Mucosa / metabolism*
  • Nasal Mucosa / pathology
  • Perfusion

Substances

  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator