Investigating the role of vitamin A in treating vocal fold hyperkeratosis

Pathophysiological profiling of vocal fold hyperkeratosis

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11005729

This study is looking at how vitamin A might help people with vocal fold hyperkeratosis, a condition that can cause voice problems, by exploring safe treatment options that could improve vocal fold health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11005729 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on vocal fold hyperkeratosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal buildup of keratin on the vocal folds, which can lead to voice issues. The study aims to explore non-destructive treatment options by examining the role of vitamin A in maintaining epithelial health and its potential therapeutic effects. Researchers will assess the vitamin A levels and tissue samples from patients with this condition, as well as conduct experiments in a rat model to understand how vitamin A is processed in the vocal fold tissues. The goal is to establish a scientific basis for using vitamin A supplementation as a treatment for vocal fold hyperkeratosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with vocal fold hyperkeratosis who may benefit from alternative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with vocal fold hyperkeratosis who are not interested in conservative management or those who require immediate surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, non-invasive treatment option for patients suffering from vocal fold hyperkeratosis, potentially improving their vocal health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated the importance of vitamin A in epithelial health, suggesting that this approach may hold promise, although it is relatively novel in the context of vocal fold hyperkeratosis.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.