Laryngeal Molecular and Cell Biology Lab
Ingo Titze , Ph.D., and Sarah Klemuk, Ph.D., Co-Directors

To truly understand the voice, the molecular underpinnings of laryngeal development and their response to environmental stresses like vibration must be understood. In this lab, goals are to elucidate molecular constituencies, cellular processes and viscoelastic changes due to vibration exposure. We connect these findings to regulation of voice production through theoretical and physical models as well as voice usage of teachers, the largest occupational population to experience voice problems.

Bioreactors are the foundational tool used to subject living tissues to quantifiable vibrations. The lab is equipped with two custom built bioreactors that provide a controlled environment for sustaining cell- populated substrates and tissues. Vocalization-like stresses can be applied and viscoelastic measures can be taken within the bioreactor using a stress-controlled and a piezoelectric rheometer manufactured by Malvern Instruments (Worcestershire, UK). This lab is well equipped for cell culture work, DNA, mRNA, and |protein analysis, and has full access to The University of Iowa Central Microscopy Facility for all microscopy needs.

Link to the website of the National Center for Voice and Speech .