Gary Novack, PhD
UC Davis
Vice Chair for Collaborative Research, UC Davis
Advisor, Foundation Fighting Blindness
President, PhamacoLogic Development
Regulatory and Clinical Expert
Vice Chair for Collaborative Research, UC Davis
Advisor, Foundation Fighting Blindness
President, PhamacoLogic Development
Regulatory and Clinical Expert
FECD is a bilateral (affecting both eyes) disease characterized by the premature degeneration of corneal endothelial cells. As these cells deteriorate, the cornea can no longer regulate its hydration effectively. This leads to fluid buildup, swelling, and significantly decreased vision.
FECD is one of the most common major eye diseases, affecting an estimated 8 million people in the United States alone. Symptoms often begin in middle age, with progressive vision impairment that may ultimately require corneal transplant.
