Drosophila Model Reveals Cholinergic Modulation Of CF Gut

Researchers led by Lane et al. publish in PLoS Genetics on February 17, 2026, that enterocyte-specific knockdown of Cftr in Drosophila reproduces intestinal cystic fibrosis phenotypes, including reduced motility, nutrient malabsorption, and decreased energy stores. Single-nuclei RNA-seq revealed upregulation of acetylcholine esterase (Ace) and diminished cholinergic sensitivity; genetic Ace knockdown and modulation of Fork head (Fkh) restored signaling and rescued multiple gut phenotypes.