--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: The CF gene codes a molecule that…" description: "\"“The CF gene codes a molecule that channels salt across cellular membranes. The most common mutation is a deletion of three bases of DNA that results i..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f8f/siddhartha-mukherjee-1619_salt-sweat_the-cf-gene-codes-a-molecule-that-channe_2995957.png" --- # The CF gene codes a molecule that channels salt across… ![“The CF gene codes a molecule that channels salt across cellular membranes. The most common mutation is a deletion of three bases of DNA that results in the removal, or deletion, of just one amino acid from the protein (in the language of genes, three bases of DNA encode a single amino acid). This…” quote by Siddhartha Mukherjee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f8f/siddhartha-mukherjee-1619_salt-sweat_the-cf-gene-codes-a-molecule-that-channe_2995957.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f8f/siddhartha-mukherjee-1619_salt-sweat_the-cf-gene-codes-a-molecule-that-channe_2995957.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f8f/siddhartha-mukherjee-1619_salt-sweat_the-cf-gene-codes-a-molecule-that-channe_2995957.png) > ““The CF gene codes a molecule that channels salt across cellular membranes. The most common mutation is a deletion of three bases of DNA that results in the removal, or deletion, of just one amino acid from the protein (in the language of genes, three bases of DNA encode a single amino acid). This deletion creates a dysfunctional protein that is unable to move chloride-one component of sodium chloride, i.e., common salt-across membranes. The salt in sweat cannot be absorbed back into the body, resulting in the characteristically salty sweat. Nor can the body secrete salt and water into the intestines, resulting in the abdominal symptoms.”” [Siddhartha Mukherjee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/siddhartha-mukherjee/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. The CF gene mutation removes a single amino acid, disabling chloride transport and causing salty sweat and digestive issues. **In simple terms:** A mutation blocks salt movement, leading to salty sweat and gut problems. Key Takeaway Understand the molecular basis of cystic fibrosis. Themes biology genetics medicine Mood clinicalious inquisitive Type scientific educational When to use this quote - clinical diagnosis - patient counseling - research on therapies Key Concepts protein dysfunction membrane transport mutation effects Questions to Reflect On - How does this mutation affect other organs? - What therapies target the defective protein? A Different Perspective Mutation impact varies among individuals, complicating treatment. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet ## Related quotes > [things that have cost more than they're worth leave a bitter taste. A taste of salt and sweat.](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/josephine-winslow-johnson/things-that-have-cost-more-than-they-re-worth-leave-a-bitter-taste-a/) [Josephine Winslow Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/josephine-winslow-johnson/) ## More by Siddhartha Mukherjee > [Most days, I go home and I feel rejuvenated. I feel ebullient.](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/siddhartha-mukherjee/most-days-i-go-home-and-i-feel-rejuvenated-i-feel-ebullient/) [Siddhartha Mukherjee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/siddhartha-mukherjee/) > [“A note of caution: epigenetics is also on the verge of transforming into a dangerous idea. 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