Fundamental approaches in molecular biology for communication sciences and disorders

Basic Science: The Foundation of Evidence-Based Voice Therapy

Basic science research is part of the circle of translational research that provides the scientific underpinning for evidence-based practice. The translation from bench to bedside, however, is sometimes not obvious. This short review seeks to demonstrate ways in which basic science can inform our clinical practice as voice therapists. From in vitro molecular and cellular studies to in vivo animal models, basic science can investigate biological mechanisms of vocal health, such as vocal fold hydration, and voice use, such as voice rest and vocal exercise, in ways that are impossible in human clinical studies. Knowledge of these mechanisms inform and guide our clinical investigations and help provide evidence for behavioral voice therapy.