This is yet under the rigorous study of scientist and there was two hypothesis considered between the relationship of thick mucus and chloride ions. However, in cystic fibrosis patients, one thing is common, there is an imbalance of chloride ions in epithelial cells. The imbalance of chloride postulated are the high concentration of chloride inside or outside the epithelial cells. Overall, there is a disruption of chloride ion flow which also disrupts the flow of water in cellular osmosis.