Using a new hydrogel to improve throat wall augmentation for better speech outcomes
Official title: Novel Implementation of Microporous Annealed Particle HydroGel for Next-generation Posterior Pharyngeal Wall Augmentation
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10874560 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new gel-like material that could help strengthen the back wall of the throat for people with velopharyngeal dysfunction, especially those with cleft or craniofacial issues, to see if it can improve their condition and overall health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $121,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE033155-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874560 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with velopharyngeal dysfunction, especially those with cleft and craniofacial conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without velopharyngeal dysfunction or those who do not have craniofacial conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a novel microporous annealed particle hydrogel to enhance the posterior pharyngeal wall, which is crucial for patients with velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD). The approach focuses on creating a durable and biocompatible material that can integrate well with surrounding tissues while maintaining its shape during movement. By testing this hydrogel in an animal model, the researchers aim to understand how it can effectively augment the pharyngeal wall and improve patient outcomes, particularly for those with cleft and craniofacial conditions. The study seeks to provide insights into the optimal conditions for using this innovative material in clinical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with VPD, enhancing their speech and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of hydrogels in medical applications is an emerging field, this specific approach to augmenting the pharyngeal wall is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Daniero, James J. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Daniero, James J.
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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.