Established in 2023, the Division of Genetic, Environmental and Inhalational Disease is a non-clinical division in the Department of Internal Medicine.

KU Medical Center researchers have a long history of contributing to the study of cystic fibrosis and other genetic, environmental and inhalational diseases. Beyond the mechanistic insights outlined below, a major goal of this division is to utilize these findings to develop new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of individuals carrying these mutations.

Genetic

A major goal of this team is to provide mechanistic insight into disease development in patients who suffer from either inherited or acquired diseases. For example, cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease caused by mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene.  CFTR mutations are associated with a wide range of CF-related diseases, including but not limited to, lung, liver and pancreatic disease (e.g. CF-related diabetes). Our goal is to understand the molecular basis between CFTR and disease in order to develop new therapeutic strategies to treat the disease. We are also interested in other diseases for that have a genetic component. 

Environmental

The environment has a major impact on disease. The progression of CF is highly dependent upon environmental factors: Identical twins with the same CFTR mutations are impacted differently by the disease due to differential environmental factors. Similarly, tobacco use is a risk factor for developing multiple diseases including chronic obstructive disease (COPD) and several types of cancer, and the chance of developing smoking related disease is affected both by genetics and long-term smoking history. 

Inhalational Disease

Faculty in the Division of Genetic, Environmental and Inhalational Disease have a broad range of research focuses, but lung disease remains a major focus. Hence research interests within this division are centered around lung disorders, particularly CF and the development of pulmonary disorders associated with smoking and vaping.