The course “BIO 25Q: Cystic Fibrosis: From Medical Conundrum to Precision Medicine Success Story” at Stanford University offers a comprehensive look into the complexities of cystic fibrosis (CF), a hereditary disease characterized by severe symptoms impacting respiration and digestion. It is guided by Ron Kopito, a professor of biology in Stanford’s School of Humanities and Sciences, who emphasizes the importance of understanding CF both scientifically and humanely.
Kopito’s personal and professional experiences with CF fuel the course’s dynamic nature. His father’s research on CF in the 1960s and his own background in diagnostic testing for the disease during his teenage years have heavily influenced his academic pursuits. Kopito notes, “Cystic fibrosis is the perfect disease to teach the entire picture of what a genetic disease is – from the story of how it was discovered to the development of symptomatic treatments.”
Throughout the course, students engage with scientific literature and guest speakers, which includes CF patients, medical practitioners, and researchers. Jacob Greene, a former student and a person with CF, shares insight into living with the disease and advancements in treatment. He said, “The course balances those two identities of science and human experience.”
Guest lecturer Paul M. Quinton, an emeritus professor diagnosed with CF at 19, provides a significant understanding of the disease’s physiological aspects. Artemis E. Xu, a course student, reflected on Quinton’s work, saying, “He really started looking into it because he fell in love with a young woman and wanted to be responsible.”
The course has evolved over the years to keep pace with advancements like Trikafta, a medication approved in 2019 that has significantly improved the life expectancy for CF patients. Greene noted that due to this drug, CF is increasingly seen in older adults, challenging the historical view of it as primarily a pediatric disease.
Students gain a multidimensional perspective on CF that incorporates scientific discovery and human impact. Kopito’s main goal is for students to finish the course with a deeper understanding of the processes underpinning scientific discoveries. Reflecting on his teaching journey, Kopito remarked, “This thrill of having imparted an understanding is why I teach this course.”
