Lung Infection (IMAGE) University of Iowa Health Care Caption This is a scanning electron microscopy image shows bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) on the surface of a CF-affect airway. Abnormally high acidity in CF airways impairs the ability of the airways to fight off bacterial infection. A new study identifies a proton pump called ATP12A as a cause of increased acidity in CF airways of people and pigs. The protein is missing in mice. The finding provides an explanation of why CF mice do not get lung disease and suggests that ATP12A may be a target for new CF therapies. Credit Tom Moninger, University of Iowa Health Care Usage Restrictions May be used with appropriate credit for news, education, and informational purposes. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.