Rheomuco, to understand and treat cystic fibrosis more effectively

Rheomuco makes it possible to quantify and objectify the viscoelasticity of sputum to acquire further knowledge on cystic fibrosis, understand certain mechanisms of this disease, and identify and validate new treatments.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that increases the viscoelasticity of sputum. The CFTR gene, which normally codes for an ion channel that allows chloride ions to cross into the sputum, mutates. The resulting osmosis modifies the hydration of the sputum, thus preventing it from becoming fluid. The presence of germs appears to exacerbate this process via the DNA they release.

Over the years, the study of the physical/rheological properties of sputum has become extensive and is now essential for improving cystic fibrosis treatments.

Rheomuco, an instrument specifically designed to measure the viscoelasticity of sputum, was the subject of a clinical trial ”Assessment of Rheological Parameters of Human Sputum” [Rheomuco, NCT02682290] conducted at Grenoble Alpes University Hospital and Inserm. Preliminary results were presented in 2019 at the 16th ECFS Basic Science Conference. This clinical trial confirms that Rheomuco can distinguish between patients and objectively measure a treatment’s efficacy. In-house lab tests have led to the same conclusions. Following these promising results, the potential of Rheomuco is being further evaluated in personalized monitoring of treatment efficacy in cystic fibrosis patients. An in vitro diagnostic medical device (IVDMD) is being explored.

Download ECFS poster