Modulation by Sex Hormones of Inflammation and Susceptibility to Pseudomonas Aeruginosa in Cystic Fibrosis Airways

Inclusion Criteria: FEMALES WITH CF * Sexually mature female CF patients followed at the Toronto CF Clinics of The Hospital for Sick Children (adolescents) or St. Michael's Hospital (adults) * 14-28 years of age * Diagnosis of CF is based on a typical clinical picture and confirmed by repeated sweat chloride values \> 60 mEq/L as determined by pilocarpine ionophoresis (minimum 100mg sweat) * Have regular, normal menses * Able to give consent on her own behalf FEMALES WITHOUT CF * Sexually mature females * 14-28 years of age * Have regular, normal menses * Able to give consent on her own behalf MALES WITH CF * Sexually mature male CF patients followed at the Toronto CF Clinics of The Hospital for Sick Children (adolescents) or St. Michael's Hospital (adults) * 14-28 years of age * Diagnosis of CF is based on a typical clinical picture and confirmed by repeated sweat chloride values \> 60 mEq/L as determined by pilocarpine ionophoresis (minimum 100mg sweat) * Able to give consent on his own behalf MALES WITHOUT CF * Sexually mature males * 14-28 years of age * Able to give consent on his own behalf Exclusion Criteria: * Is a smoker * Has had an upper respiratory tract infection within the preceding two weeks * Is taking systemic oral contraceptive therapy * Is pregnant * Has used furosemide or amiloride or had a pulmonary exacerbation in the previous month (Acute exacerbations are defined as 3 or more of the following symptoms or signs: increased cough, change in volu…