Influence of genetic variation of the β2-adrenergic receptor on lung diffusion in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Rationale: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a disease that adversely affects the lung resulting in a reduction in lung diffusion. Stimulation of the β(2)-adrenergic receptors mediates mucociliary clearance and bronchodilation. We sought to determine the influence of an inhaled β-agonist on the diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO), alveolar-capillary membrane conductance (D(M)), pulmonary capillary blood volume (Vc), and peripheral oxygen saturation (SaO(2)) in subjects with CF, when compared to matched healthy subjects, according to genetic variation of the β(2)-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2).