Understanding Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy and its Genetic Links
Official title: Investigating Genetic Causes and Molecular Mechanisms Responsible for Inherited Corneal Disease
Run by University College, London · NCT06881771 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 500 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University College, London Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | February 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | February 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | March 18, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06881771 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include younger biological relatives of FECD patients and individuals with early-stage disease who are willing to participate.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with secondary causes of corneal endothelial dysfunction or those who have undergone corneal surgeries may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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University College London
London, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Alice Davidson, PhD — University College, London
- Study coordinator: Siyin Liu, MBChB
- Email: siyin.liu@ucl.ac.uk
- Phone: +44207 253 3411
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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EO2002 therapy for corneal edema due to endothelial dysfunction
This trial tests whether a single intracameral injection of EO2002 cells can improve vision and reduce corneal thickness in adults with corneal edema from endothelial dysfunction.
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Assessing the safety of EO2002 injections for corneal conditions
This study is testing if EO2002 injections are safe for people with corneal conditions like Fuchs' dystrophy or pseudophakic bullous keratopathy.
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PVEK corneal implant to treat corneal swelling
This study will test a PVEK tissue‑engineered corneal implant to see if it is safe and helps people with corneal swelling from Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy or pseudophakic bullous keratopathy who need endothelial keratoplasty.
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Robot-assisted full-thickness corneal transplant
This will try using a surgical robot to help surgeons perform full-thickness corneal transplants for adults with severe corneal dystrophy who need a graft.
-
Expansion of a genetic and data repository for rare eye diseases
This study is collecting genetic and health information from people with rare eye diseases like Aniridia and Best disease, along with their family members, to help improve understanding and treatment options for these conditions.
-
Using plasma rich in growth factors during corneal transplants
This study tests if using plasma rich in growth factors during corneal transplants can help patients keep more healthy cells after surgery compared to standard methods.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.