title: Histological changes in vocal fold growth and aging.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Sophisticated descriptions of the highly specialized vocal fold microarchitecture have been available for over three decades, but how this anatomy evolves with growth and aging remains an area of active investigation and, at times, a source of controversy. As our aging population expands and interest in pediatric voice disorders blossoms, it is timely to consider our contemporary understanding of evolving vocal fold histology and its implications for voice production.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Novel applications of existing and emerging biotechnology, development of animal models and skillful use of human specimens have afforded greater insights into the histologic vocal fold changes seen throughout the lifespan in health and disease.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Burgeoning knowledge has laid the foundation for more comprehensive models of vocal fold histology and has led to the development of innovative therapies for challenging voice disorders.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, USA.
authors.forename: Maggie A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Kuhn
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging / Q000473:pathology / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000502:physiology*; D014832:Voice Disorders / Q000473:pathology; D014833:Voice Quality / Q000502:physiology