Understanding how vocal fold infections lead to communication issues in children

Disruption of vocal fold epithelial homeostasis by injury and papillomavirus infection

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11137958

This study is looking at how injuries to the vocal cords in kids might help the HPV virus cause a condition called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), which leads to growths that can affect their voice, and it aims to find ways to better manage and prevent this issue.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11137958 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), a condition caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) that leads to growths on the vocal folds, affecting voice function and communication in children. The study aims to explore how injuries to the vocal folds may allow HPV to establish infections that result in RRP. By using a mouse model, researchers will examine the relationship between vocal fold injury and the development of chronic HPV infections. The findings could provide insights into better management and prevention strategies for this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who are experiencing voice issues or have been diagnosed with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis.

Not a fit: Patients who are adults or do not have vocal fold issues related to HPV infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and preventive measures for children suffering from communication disorders due to RRP.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding viral infections and their interactions with host tissues can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, suggesting potential success for this approach.

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.