The University of Iowa was awarded a $588,731 Project Grant by the National Eye Institute (NEI) under the NEI Vision Research federal grant program (CFDA 93.867) to investigate the mechanisms of ferroptosis, a novel form of cell death, in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD). The research aims to define the roles of pathological extracellular matrix features (guttae) and ultraviolet-A exposure in driving aberrant iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation leading to ferroptosis-induced cell death in FECD. The ultimate goal is to develop a preventive medical therapy, such as eye drops, that can preserve corneal function and delay or prevent vision loss from FECD without the need for corneal transplantation. The project will leverage the university's expertise in ferroptosis and FECD animal models to conduct in vitro and in vivo studies to modulate ferroptosis as a therapeutic approach.