Basic science & translational research in cystic fibrosis - insights from the 20th ECFS basic science conference.

The development of CFTR modulators revolutionized the approach to treating Cystic Fibrosis (CF) by targeting the ion channel that causes the disease rather than just the symptoms. For those people with CF who have access and good responses to modulators, their day-to-day health, quality and quantity of life continue to improve. But there are still many people with CF unable to tolerate these medicines, and/or without access, ineligible due to their CF genotype, cost, or lack of approval in their home country. There is a lot more basic science and translational research to be done until the mission of the CF community is complete. A leading platform to promote the process of propagating, peer-review, and ultimately progress work towards this goal is the annual ECFS Basic Science Conference. The aim of this special issue of JCF is to highlight the diverse yet interconnected nature of basic science research in CF and its progress to clinical evaluation. This work is reflected in nine review articles authored by faculty members who presented their findings at the twentieth iteration of the conference, held in Viareggio, Italy.