Global

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease affecting more than 70,000 people worldwide. Caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, cystic fibrosis can result in difficulty breathing, widespread bacterial infections, edema, malnutrition, pancreatitis, and death. Current drug-based treatments struggle to reach the site of action due to the thick mucus, and only manage symptoms such as blocked airways, lung infections, and limited ability to digest food. Nanotechnology opens up possibilities for improved treatment strategies by focusing on drug penetration through the mucus lining, eliminating resulting bacterial infections, and targeting the underlying genetic cause of the disease. In this review, we present recent nanoparticle developments for cystic fibrosis, challenges in nanomedicine therapeutics, and future research directions in gene editing and nonviral vectors for gene delivery. 

The #SDGBookClub helps children learn about the Sustainable Development Goals. The book club presents a selection of books for children aged 5-12 on each of the goals. Check out the books that have been selected in support of Goal 1 - No Poverty.

This book chapter advances SDG 14 by discussing measures of freshwater species diversity and how and why diversity varies among and within habitats. Also discussed are extinctions caused by humans and some of the associated consequences, as well as consequences of invasive species.

This chapter supports SDGs 3 and 16 by exploring complex emergencies and how displaced populations are at increased risk of increased morbidity and mortality.Disasters, either natural or man-made, disrupt the baseline functioning of a community, including food, water, sanitation and health. The resiliency of a community to recover from a disaster depends on existing economic and social structures. Poverty and inadequate economic and social systems are prevalent in tropical regions, making them extremely vulnerable to disasters.