How the base of the tongue affects breathing and swallowing
The Tongue Base in Respiration and Swallowing
This study is looking at how extra fat at the back of the tongue can affect breathing and swallowing, especially for people with obstructive sleep apnea, to see if understanding these changes can help improve treatments for them and others who have had oral cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10669184 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the tongue base in respiration and swallowing, focusing on how adipose tissue accumulation in this area may contribute to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study aims to understand the anatomical and physiological differences between the tongue body and base, particularly how changes in volume from fat accumulation or surgical reduction can impact airway stability and swallowing mechanics. By examining these factors, the research seeks to uncover the potential for tissue regeneration and the overall effects on patients with OSA or those undergoing oral cancer treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea or those who have undergone surgical procedures affecting the tongue base.
Not a fit: Patients without any issues related to swallowing or breathing, or those not affected by adipose tissue accumulation in the oropharyngeal region, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for obstructive sleep apnea and better recovery strategies for patients undergoing tongue surgeries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of anatomical changes in the oropharyngeal region on respiratory conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Zijun — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Liu, Zijun
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.