PCD Research

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare inherited condition that affects 1 in 7,500 people in the UK. Motile cilia are the microscopic hairs that beat in the airways and sinuses, clearing out secretions and infections. In PCD, the cilia are abnormal and unable to move in the usual way, such that secretions and infections affect the lungs, sinuses, ears and nose. Cilia are also important for the propulsion of sperm, so fertility may be affected too. At present the only treatment for PCD is chest physiotherapy to try to prevent and slow lung function decline. PCD is a life altering and life shortening condition, and people with PCD have been found to have worse lung function than those with cystic fibrosis. This will mean for some people that they will need a lung-transplant. Our aim is to improve treatment options for people with PCD, by funding important and life-saving research.