Otolaryngology Research Laboratory

Lab Overview

Dr. King’s lab has three primary areas of work:

First, we perform translational studies using animal models to investigate muscle and peripheral nerve injury following radiotherapy that may lead to dysfunctions in swallowing movement. The lab has developed a preclinical animal model that closely recapitulates the physiological changes associated with radiation injury to the upper airway. We use this model to characterize changes in swallowing function, gene and protein expression of the irradiated muscle and nerve, and their impact on quality of life.

Second, we are identifying novel molecular targets for therapeutic intervention that we hope to use to restore or prevent swallowing disorders after radiation treatment.

Third, we perform human clinical studies to learn more about the effects of head and neck cancer treatment on swallowing mobility, fibrosis and pain.