Inflammation in the COVID-19 Airway Is Due to Inhibition of CFTR Signaling by the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein

Using electrophysiological techniques and an organoid model of normal airway epithelia differentiated on an air–liquid-interface, scientists found that CFTR protein expression and CFTR cAMP-activated chloride channel activity were lost when the model epithelium was exposed to SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins.