A new research initiative, which focuses entirely on children with cystic fibrosis (CF), has been announced.

This marks the first dedicated national paediatric CF research programme in Ireland and it will involve the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and the National Children's Research Centre (NCRC) working in partnership over the next five years.

"This is a very exciting research partnership which will put Irish research at the forefront of paediatric CF research. Ireland has one of the highest incidences of CF in the world and as a direct consequence of this, it has become a hub for international researchers hoping to find a cure. The development of a national paediatric CF programme will bring together research, clinical trials and clinical care for the benefit of patients," commented Dr Jacinta Kelly, chief executive of the NCRC.

CF is a hereditary disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. It is caused by a defective gene, which along with its protein product, causes the body to produce unusually thick and sticky mucous.

This mucous clogs the lungs, leading to potentially life-threatening lung infections. Ireland has the highest prevalence of the disease in the developed world, with one in 19 Irish people carrying a CF gene mutation.

Currently, around 600 children are living with the condition here.

The aim of this new research is to develop biomarkers of lung disease in CF, which will help to detect early lung disease in young children. Early detection and treatment are key to reducing the progression of the disease and improving the quality of life of those affected.

"We are delighted to join forces and collaborate with the NCRC to develop Ireland's first national paediatric CF research programme in Ireland. The aim of this research partnership is to keep young CF lungs healthy," said Prof Ray Stallings, the RCSI's director of research.

This €1.1 million programme will take place at the NCRC, which is based at Our Lady's Children's Hospital in Crumlin. The NCRC is funded by charitable donations to CMRF (Children's Medical and Research Foundation) Crumlin.