Understanding Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy and its Genetic Links

Investigating Genetic Causes and Molecular Mechanisms Responsible for Inherited Corneal Disease

University College, London · NCT06881771

This study is trying to understand how Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy affects younger people with a genetic link to the condition by using advanced imaging to track changes over time.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity College, London (other)
Locations1 site (London)
Trial IDNCT06881771 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

FECD-TRACE is a longitudinal observational study focused on Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD) in the UK. It aims to characterize younger individuals with a genetic predisposition to FECD by utilizing advanced imaging techniques to monitor phenotypic changes over several years. The study will also examine genetic biomarkers to establish correlations with these changes, enhancing our understanding of the disease's genetic mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to facilitate personalized care approaches for those affected by FECD.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include younger biological relatives of FECD patients and individuals with early-stage disease who are willing to participate.

Not a fit: Patients with secondary causes of corneal endothelial dysfunction or those who have undergone corneal surgeries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies for patients with Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on corneal dystrophies, this specific approach focusing on genetic predisposition and advanced imaging in a longitudinal cohort is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Willing and able to provide informed consent for participation in the study
* Willing to attend scheduled study visits and undergo a clinical examination
* Willing to donate blood/saliva samples
* Fulfil the abovementioned cohort criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of a secondary cause for corneal endothelial dysfunction or oedema
* Presence of clinically evident corneal oedema
* History of concurrent corneal diseases
* History of corneal surgeries, including corneal transplantation
* Cognitive impairment or inability to provide informed consent for participation in the study

Where this trial is running

London

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Fuchs Dystrophy, Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy, Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy of Bilateral Eyes, Corneal Dystrophy Fuchs, Corneal Dystrophy, Fuchs' Corneal Endothelial Dystrophy, FECD, Corneal Dystrophies

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.