PATIENTS suffering from cystic fibrosis-related diabetes will benefit from an international research project aimed at understanding the key elements behind the fatal condition.

Experts from Newcastle University are leading a new scientific study to investigate how generic defects, which are responsible for cystic fibrosis, increase blood sugar levels.

One of those hoping to benefit is Ruth Trigger of Newton Hall, Durham.

The 23-year-old, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) more than a decade ago, said she is delighted that a new scientific study is being carried out to allow a better understanding of the condition.

“I’m excited about this study,” she said. “It’s great to hear that researchers are focusing on helping people with CRFD as it could benefit patients in the future.

“Managing CRFD is a fine balancing act as the treatment for cystic fibrosis can negatively impact on the diabetes and vice versa.”

CFRD is unique and has a different mechanism to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. While the cause is unknown, the development of the diabetes accelerates lung disease – the leading cause of death among people suffering cystic-fibrosis.

Learning how the defective gene affects the body is crucial to working out how to prevent diabetes developing.

Miss Trigger added: “The more research that goes on the better as it means that one day scientists might be able to identify a way to put an end for CRFD.”

The three year £750,000 study is run by the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, which is hopeful the research will have a significant impact.

It will be carried out in collaboration with Ulster University, Northern Ireland; Lund University, Sweden; University of Szeged, Hungary and University of Iowa, USA.

James Shaw, Professor of Regenerative Medicine for diabetes at Newcastle University, who is spearheading the international collaboration, said: “Given the significant, detrimental impact of CFRD on lung function and life expectancy for patients with Cystic Fibrosis, better understanding of these processes is urgently needed.”

“Our research has the potential to identify new treatment options that could enable the majority of CF patients to live longer and healthier lives.”

Cystic-fibrosis is a life shortening genetic condition that causes lungs to become clogged with mucus, making it hard to breathe.

Dr Anoushka de Almeida, Head of Research at the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, said: “Research is the biggest single area of investment for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and it’s wonderful to see projects like this aiming to make such positive progress in our fight for a life unlimited.”

As many as 2.5 million people in the UK carry the faulty gene that causes the illness.