Research Focus
The Thibeault lab research program focuses broadly on further understanding the biological mechanisms of the extracellular matrix of the vocal folds, specifically related to inflammation, fibrosis and scarring in the larynx. Specifically, our research has focused on translational and clinical investigations of laryngeal disorders to characterize critical aspects of dysregulated extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition since 2001.
We presently have multiple areas of focus in our research laboratory. The first being tissue regeneration and immunology of the vocal fold lamina propria as it relates to vocal fold scarring and inflammation. This work involves characterizing cells which may be utilized for cellular therapy and these include – epithelial cells, fibroblasts, adult stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells. Further, we have spent considerable time characterizing the microbiome in the larynx in health and disease.
We have extensive experience related to the use of small animal models of the larynx and vocal fold wound healing – lamina propria and epithelial. We utilize mouse models– knockout and transgenic to interrogate developmental processes of the larynx and upper airway.
Contact
Susan Thibeault, PhD, CCC-SLP
Professor
thibeault@surgery.wisc.edu
(608) 263-0192
Wisconsin Institutes for Medical Research (WIMR) BLDG. 1485
1111 Highland Avenue
Madison, WI 53705-2275