The latest genetic tests of a medical drug in Italy for cystic fibrosis treatment in 2025–2026

Italian genetic researchers have developed an experimental drug called 3b, which, when taken together with CFTR modulators, creates a powerful dual effect in the treatment of cystic fibrosis.

In early laboratory trials, compound 3b not only helped restore the function of the CFTR protein, whose damage is a hallmark of cystic fibrosis, but also inhibited the growth of some of the most common respiratory viruses. It is known that viruses—especially rhinoviruses, which cause the common cold—lead to a deterioration of lung function in people with cystic fibrosis. The trial showed that compound 3b enhanced the effect of existing CFTR modulators, which would allow it to be used together with modulators in combination therapy.

Although the laboratory trials are still in the preclinical phase, the results offer encouraging prospects that future treatment of cystic fibrosis with drug 3b may help patients better cope with viral infections that trigger worsening of bacterial complications and significantly impair lung function.