Using muscle cells to treat vocal fold paralysis
Treatment of Vocal Fold Paralysis with Muscle Progenitor Cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11058973
This study is looking at how special muscle cells can help improve voice and swallowing for people with vocal fold paralysis, often caused by nerve damage during thyroid surgery, and it will first test this treatment in dogs before moving on to humans.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11058973 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of muscle progenitor cells (MPCs) to treat vocal fold paralysis, a condition often caused by nerve injury during thyroid surgery. The approach involves isolating these cells from healthy muscle, culturing them, and then implanting them into the affected laryngeal muscles. By doing so, the researchers aim to enhance nerve recovery and muscle strength, potentially improving voice and swallowing functions for patients. The effectiveness of this treatment will be tested in a canine model before considering human applications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from vocal fold paralysis due to nerve injury, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with vocal fold paralysis caused by conditions other than nerve injury, or those who are not candidates for surgical intervention, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option that significantly improves voice and swallowing functions for patients with vocal fold paralysis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using muscle progenitor cells in similar applications, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PANIELLO, RANDAL C — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PANIELLO, RANDAL C
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.