Recruiting

Understanding what triggers lung flare-ups in cystic fibrosis

Plain-English translation of NCT06940531 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated March 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 ·

What is this trial?

Researchers want to understand why people with cystic fibrosis experience sudden flare-ups of lung symptoms — called exacerbations. This study will collect blood, saliva, sputum, and other samples from about 300 adults and children with cystic fibrosis across the UK, plus some healthy volunteers, to identify the causes and warning signs of these dangerous episodes.

Lung flare-ups are serious and unpredictable in cystic fibrosis, but doctors don't fully understand what triggers them. By studying what's happening in the body before, during, and after these events, researchers hope to find early warning signs and eventually prevent or treat them more effectively.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (confirmed with genetic testing and/or sweat chloride test)
you are aged 16 or older (or 5–16 for the pediatric pilot group)
you have had at least one lung flare-up treated with antibiotics in the past 12 months
you own a home spirometry device (a small machine that measures lung function) and can use it
you are able to understand the study information and willing to consent to participate

You likely don't qualify if…

you cannot produce sputum (mucus from the lungs), even with help
you are having an active lung flare-up or feeling unwell at your first visit
you have taken antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications within the past 90 days (for healthy volunteers only)
you have had cold or flu symptoms in the past 4 weeks (for healthy volunteers only)

What participation looks like

If you join Group A, you'll have one in-person visit at the start where the team collects blood, saliva, sputum, and other samples, plus measures your lung function. You'll then receive home sampling kits to collect samples every two weeks for 6 months, and additional kits to use if you become unwell. A study app will remind you to collect and mail samples back. The whole study lasts 12 months. Group B involves the same process but includes additional in-person visits at 4 and 26 weeks, and when you're unwell.

Understanding what triggers lung flare-ups in cystic fibrosis

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(18 sites)