Basic protocol for transepithelial nasal potential difference measurements

Transepithelial nasal potential difference (NPD) measurements assess ion conductance in the upper respiratory epithelium. NPD is useful in assisting in the diagnosis of classical and atypical cystic fibrosis (CF) and of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR)-related disorders, as well as for monitoring the effect of pharmacological agents and gene transfer approaches to correct the abnormalities of ion transport in CF. The article summarizes the objectives and the principle of NPD measurements, describes a hands-on protocol of the procedure and provides quality control measures, practical hints and troubleshooting.