Injection of vocal fold lamina propria-derived hydrogels modulates fibrosis in injured vocal folds.

Vocal fold (VF) fibrosis, often resulting from phonosurgery, radiation, or trauma, causes irreversible voice dysfunction due to excessive ECM deposition and increased tissue stiffness. No FDA-approved treatments for VF fibrosis exist, highlighting the need for novel antifibrotic therapies. TGF-β1 contributes to fibroblast-to-myofibroblast activation, leading to increased ACTA2 expression and collagen production via SMAD3, YAP1, and integrin signaling pathways.

Preclinical Vocal Fold and Airway Injury Models: A Scoping Review.

Objectives: Preclinical models are necessary to study the pathophysiology of laryngotracheal diseases and novel treatments. Currently, there is no consensus on species, injury mechanics, and study duration This review provides a contemporary overview of the studies of vocal fold and laryngotracheal injuries in preclinical models.

Methods: A search was performed in PubMed and Web of Science involving various animal models undergoing vocal fold, trachea, and laryngotracheal injury and/or wound healing studies from 2013 to 2023.

Controlled-Release of Dexamethasone via Light-Activated Implant for Potential Vocal Fold Scar Treatment.

This study investigates a novel light-activated implant system designed for injectable, dose-controlled, sustained drug delivery. The light-activated implant was developed by incorporating light-activated drug-releasing liposomes into a biodegradable polymeric capsule. The drug release kinetics from the implant at 0, 1, and 2 min of light activation were determined using a tissue mimic with varying depths.

Drug delivery systems for wound healing treatment of upper airway injury.

Introduction: Endotracheal intubation is a common procedure to maintain an open airway with risks for traumatic injury. Pathological changes resulting from intubation can cause upper airway complications, including vocal fold scarring, laryngotracheal stenosis, and granulomas and present with symptoms such as dysphonia, dysphagia, and dyspnea. Current intubation-related laryngotracheal injury treatment approaches lack standardized guidelines, relying on individual clinician experience, and surgical and medical interventions have limitations and carry risks.