Our focus is on publishing studies that could help improve the way that you practice. Although our focus is on clinical studies, we recognize the importance of exciting laboratory and bench-to-bedside (i.e., translational) research. This is why we offer a State-of-the-Art (SOTA) section in our journal. These articles synthesize new findings presented across many studies.
Sometimes a particular discovery is so interesting and important, that just one or a few studies are worth calling to your attention. That is why this month we are introducing a new type of article that falls under the SOTA umbrella—State-of-the-Art Translational Science Briefs. These articles will be shorter (1500 words or less) than our traditional SOTA articles and describe a recent study or group of closely related studies that have the potential to transform clinical care. We offer the first of these Briefs this month with the early release of a short article by Drs. Elizabeth Burgener and David Cornfield from Stanford educating us on cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) modulators (10.1542/peds.2023-062985). These modulators, designed to enhance the function of the CFTR protein, which is associated with cystic fibrosis, have transformed care. These improvements are especially true with the recent approval of the combination drug that contains 3 different modulating agents: elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (Trikafta). This combination drug is a game-changer in improving health outcomes. Reading this short article will tell you what you need to know about these modulators and why they are so important. Link to our first of what we hope will be many SOTA Translational Science Briefs.
