Final answer:
In people with cystic fibrosis (CF), the abnormal membrane transport process is the transport of Cl- ions, which leads to the production of dehydrated mucus.
Step-by-step explanation:
In people with cystic fibrosis (CF), the membrane transport process that is abnormal is the transport of Cl- ions. In healthy individuals, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein is responsible for transporting Cl- ions out of the cell. However, in individuals with CF, the defective CFTR protein is not properly incorporated into the cell membrane, leading to a decrease in the transport of Cl- ions.
The consequence of this abnormal transport is the production of dehydrated mucus. The CFTR protein plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of salt and water in the body's mucus. When the CFTR protein is defective or absent, the mucus becomes thick and sticky, leading to blockages in organs such as the lungs, pancreas, liver, kidneys, and intestines. This can result in respiratory and sinus infections, malabsorption, and other negative health impacts.