Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026
08:36
A Porcine Corneal Endothelial Organ Culture Model Using Split Corneal Buttons
Published on: October 6, 2019
7.6K
Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy: Update on Pathogenesis and Future Directions
Caterina Sarnicola1, Asim V Farooq, Kathryn Colby
1Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Section of Ophthalmology (C.S.), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science (C.S., A.V.F., K.C.), University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.
Eye & Contact Lens
|July 14, 2018
Summary
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a leading cause of corneal transplants. Research is advancing our understanding of FECD biology and potential treatments, drawing parallels with neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is the most common reason for corneal transplantation in the US.
- Corneal transplantation rates for FECD are significant, with 36% of nearly 47,000 transplants in 2016 attributed to this condition.
- Despite advancements in surgical management, the underlying pathogenesis of FECD remains unclear, with numerous proposed pathways and candidate genes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent progress in understanding the biology of FECD.
- To explore potential connections between FECD and neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
- To highlight future directions for FECD treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in FECD research.
- Analysis of genetic and biological pathways implicated in FECD.
- Comparative study of FECD pathogenesis with neurodegenerative disorders.
Main Results:
- Multiple candidate genes and disease pathways are being investigated for their role in FECD.
- Potential biological similarities exist between FECD and neurodegenerative conditions.
- Current research is paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.
Conclusions:
- Understanding FECD pathogenesis is crucial for developing targeted treatments.
- Investigating parallels with neurodegenerative diseases may offer new insights into FECD.
- Future research holds promise for improved therapeutic interventions for FECD patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Pulmonary Hypertension: Classification and Pathogenesis
662
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a severe health condition in which the mean pulmonary arterial pressure increases to 25 mmHg or more, even when the body is at rest. This high pressure in the blood vessels that transport blood from the heart to the lungs can cause various symptoms, including shortness of breath, can lead to right heart failure, and significantly affect the overall quality of life.
There are various classifications for PH, each relating to different underlying causes and also...
There are various classifications for PH, each relating to different underlying causes and also...
662
01:21Satellite Stem Cells and Muscular Dystrophy
2.4K
Satellite stem cells or myosatellite cells are quiescent stem cells that Alexander Mauro first identified in 1961. These cells are located between the sarcolemma, the plasma membrane of muscle fibers, and the basal lamina, the connective tissue sheath covering it. These mononucleated cells are activated in response to muscle injury, can transform into myoblasts, and may form or repair muscle fibers. Myosatellite cells can provide additional myonuclei for muscle regeneration or return to a...
2.4K
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
1.4K
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
1.4K
01:23Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis
888
Cystic fibrosis (CF), an autosomal recessive disorder, significantly affects the function of exocrine glands. This genetically inherited disease is characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus, which can severely affect various organs and systems in the body.
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation,...
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation,...
888
01:20COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
1.9K
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions that progressively worsen over time, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. This cluster of diseases collectively leads to a gradual and irreversible decline in lung function over time.
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
1.9K
01:09Directing Effect of Substituents: meta-Directing Groups
6.0K
Substituents on the benzene ring that direct an incoming electrophile to undergo substitution at the meta position are called meta directors. All meta directors either have a positive charge on the atom directly bonded to the ring or a partial positive charge. These groups function by withdrawing electrons from the ring through inductive and resonance effects. Consider the carbocation intermediates formed upon the addition of an electrophile on nitrobenzene at the...
6.0K