A breakthrough hydrogel developed by a team of scientists at McGill University shows promise in treating vocal cord injuries, providing new hope for patients with voice loss or chronic damage.
In preclinical trials, the hydrogel surpassed existing treatments by offering prolonged effects and the potential to reduce the need for repetitive procedures.
Vocal cord scarring can result in permanent vocal impairment, with current injectable therapies breaking down rapidly, necessitating multiple interventions that can harm delicate tissues. The unique aspect of the gel lies in its composition of natural tissue proteins processed into a powder and transformed into a gel using click chemistry.
According to co-senior author Maryam Tabrizian, a professor in McGill’s Department of Biomedical Engineering, the gel’s molecular glue-like properties prevent it from disintegrating too quickly post-injection, enhancing its longevity.
Voice disorders affect approximately one in 13 adults annually, with vocal cord injuries being prevalent in older individuals with acid reflux or who smoke, as well as in professionals like singers, teachers, and radio hosts.
Loss of voice can have a profound impact on mental health and quality of life, particularly for individuals whose professions rely on it, emphasizes Li-Jessen, an associate professor in McGill’s School of Communication Sciences and Disorders.
The researchers plan to advance their investigations by conducting computer simulations to assess how the gel behaves within the body. Upon successful validation of these outcomes, they aim to proceed to human trials.
If proven effective, this innovative work could establish a minimally invasive, long-lasting solution for voice loss.
Keyphrase: vocal cord injuries
