Cystic fibrosis is caused by a mutant allele that produces a defective enzyme in the cells that play a major role in lubricating the inner surfaces of organs. What is the most likely effect of this disorder?

Asthma or Infertility

The symptoms of cystic fibrosis and its severity are different for each person, but generally, it affects the lungs and digestive system.

Explanation:

Cystic fibrosis is a chronic genetic disease that mainly affects the lungs, enlargements and the digestive system. As mentioned, a defective gene and a protein altered by it cause the body to produce 30 to 60 times more than normal. Thick mucus leads to increased bacteria and germs in the airways, which can cause damage, inflammation and infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, causing lung damage.

Interestingly, the symptoms of cystic fibrosis and its severity are different for each person. Recent research shows that part of the symptoms are based on the type of defect or genetic mutation the gene has. There are over a thousand different types of mutations for this gene and the most common manifestations are: salty-tasting skin, persistent cough, often with phlegm, frequent lung infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, wheezing or shortness of breath, poor growth or weight gain despite good appetite, bulky and fatty stools and difficulty in bowel movement (few visits to the bathroom), in addition to the appearance of nasal polyps.