Collagen in the Developing Larynx

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the types of collagen in the developing human larynx that contribute to the structural framework and function of various components of this organ. The infant larynx is much more than a mere miniature of the adult “voice box.” There are many age-related differences that occur in the larynx from the newborn period to the adult period of life. While collagen has been studied in numerous tissues, both normal and diseased, there have been no studies of the whole organ content, types, and/or changes of collagen in the developing human larynx that may account for many of the clinical findings. This study may at least in part explain whether collagen differences may account for the structural changes and responses that are seen in clinical practice.