Final answer:
Cystic fibrosis affects cells by impacting the cell membrane and decreasing cellular transport and homeostasis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The genetic condition known as cystic fibrosis affects cells by impacting the cell membrane and decreasing cellular transport and homeostasis. In healthy individuals, the CFTR protein transports Cl- ions out of the cell, maintaining the proper balance of water and substances inside and outside the cell. However, in individuals with cystic fibrosis, the CFTR gene is mutated, resulting in the production of a defective channel protein that is not properly incorporated into the cell membrane. This leads to a build-up of water and substances inside the cell, causing symptoms such as lung and digestive problems.