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Funded Projects

Defining the Role of Diabetes and Dysbiosis in Acute Laryngeal Injury After Intubation

Awarded in 2025
New Investigator Program
Updated Dec 1, 2025

At a Glance

The project, Defining the Role of Diabetes and Dysbiosis in Acute Laryngeal Injury After Intubation, led by Ruth Davis, MD, investigates why adults with diabetes are at higher risk for laryngeal injury after endotracheal intubation. With more than 1.5 million critically ill adults intubated each year, understanding the biological factors that influence healing is essential. Using patient samples and a mouse model, the study examines how diabetes, microbial imbalance and inflammation affect wound repair in the larynx. Findings will help guide the development of new therapies and preventive strategies to improve recovery and long-term health for people in Wisconsin and beyond. Collaborators include Susan Thibeault, PhD, CCC-SLP, professor, Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, and Federico Rey, PhD, professor, Department of Bacteriology, UW–Madison.

More Funded Projects

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New Investigator Program

Disrupting DNA Damage Repair to Potentiate the Efficacy of Radiopharmaceutical Theragnostic Agents in Advanced Prostate Cancer

Awarded in 2025
The project, Disrupting DNA Damage Repair to Potentiate the Efficacy of Radiopharmaceutical Theranostics Agents in Advanced Prostate Cancer, led by Reinier Hernandez, PhD, aims to improve outcomes for people with advanced prostate cancer by enhancing the effectiveness of next-generation radiopharmaceutical therapies. The initiative tests a new treatment strategy that pairs a highly targeted radiopharmaceutical, [²²⁵Ac]Ac-PSMA, with drugs that disrupt cancer cells’ ability to repair radiation-induced DNA damage. By identifying which tumor subtypes benefit most and determining the safest, most effective combination regimen, the project seeks to inform the design of future clinical trials.
research icon: microscope and stethoscope
New Investigator Program

Adapting and Feasibility Testing an Integrated Exercise Program as Part of First Episode Psychosis Coordinated Specialty Care

Awarded in 2025
The project, Adapting and Feasibility Testing an Integrated Exercise Program as Part of First Episode Psychosis Coordinated Specialty Care, led by Shiri Raphaely, MD, adapts and pilots an integrated exercise and lifestyle program to improve physical and mental health outcomes for young people experiencing first episode psychosis. The initiative aims to address the significant cardiometabolic risks faced by individuals with serious mental illness. The project will develop a culturally appropriate 12-week program focused on physical activity, metabolic monitoring and wellness skills to prevent chronic disease and enhance overall well-being. Collaborators include Emilie Pinkovitz, LCSW, Wings Program Director, and Jacob Meyer, PhD, assistant professor, UW–Madison School of Education.