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NCT07135167 · Woolfson Eye Institute

Compassionate Use Study of Epi-ON Corneal Collagen Crosslinking Performed Using UVA Exposure on Eyes With Ectatic Corneal Diseases for Subjects With Down Syndrome

What this study is about

The goal of this clinical trial is to study the effects of an experimental (not Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved) treatment called corneal crosslinking (CXL) for conditions in which the cornea becomes progressively thin, steep, and misshapen, causing vision to be blurred.

View original scientific description

The goal of this clinical trial is to study the effects of an experimental (not Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved) treatment called corneal crosslinking (CXL) for conditions in which the cornea becomes progressively thin, steep, and misshapen, causing vision to be blurred. CXL is performed by putting riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops onto the eye and then exposing it to ultraviolet (UVA) light at about the same intensity as you get outdoors on a bright, sunny day. It is designed to stop the progression of disease by strengthening the cornea. Study participants will be 8 years of age or older and have a diagnosis of Down syndrome. The main question it aims to answer is: * Does CXL help prevent or slow the progression of someone's corneal condition and vision loss? Participants will: * Attend up to a total of 7 in office visits over the course of 6 months, where several eye and vision tests will be given. Receive CXL (applying riboflavin (Vitamin B2 eye drops) to the eye, then exposing the eye to ultraviolet (UV-A) light for 20 minutes).

Who can participate

This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.

Inclusion criteria

  • Be at least 8 years of age or older, male or female, of any race.
  • Have a diagnosis of Down syndrome or other cognitive, developmental, or medical conditions that precludes the subject from reliably following instructions or performing some of the study examination procedures.
  • Have a diagnosis of keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, progressive ectasia after previous CXL treatment, other ectatic condition, or forme fruste keratoconus based on topography, tomography, and slit lamp examination.
  • Provide written informed consent and a signed HIPAA form. Pediatric subjects less than 14 years of age must sign an assent, and a parent or legal guardian must sign an informed consent. If the subject has impaired consent capacity, determined by the consenter, the consent form must be signed by the subject's legally authorized representative on behalf of the subject.
  • Satisfactory completion of the standardized clinical decision tool evaluation of patient suitability for CXL. (See Section 7.2.3)
  • Be willing and able to follow all instructions to the best of his/her abilities and comply with the schedule for follow-up visits.

Exclusion criteria

  • Normal corneal topography.
  • A history of previous corneal transplant in the study eye.
  • Minimum corneal thickness \< 300 (measured by Pentacam and Ultrasound) at the screening exam.
  • Previous ocular condition (other than refractive error) in the eye(s) to be treated that may predispose the eye to future complications or prevent the possibility of improved vision, for example:
  • History of, or active, corneal disease (e.g., herpes simplex, herpes zoster keratitis, etc.)
  • Clinically significant corneal scarring in the central cornea that, in the investigator's opinion, will not allow the subject to achieve functional vision, even with contact lens correction, after the crosslinking procedure.
  • A known contraindication, sensitivity, or allergy to the test article or its components or to study medications.
  • Nystagmus or any other condition that would prevent a steady gaze during the crosslinking treatment or other diagnostic tests.
  • If female, pregnant, lactating or planning a pregnancy, or having a positive urine pregnancy test prior to the randomization of, or treatment of either eye during the course of the study. \[NOTE: If female and capable of becoming pregnant, must agree to use a medically acceptable form of birth control for at least one week prior to the treatment visit and to continue one month following treatment. \] 7\. Inability to remove soft or scleral contact lenses at least 3 days before initial and follow-up examinations. 8\. Inability to remove rigid gas-permeable contact lenses at least 2 weeks before initial and follow-up examinations. 9\. Inability to return for required postoperative examinations. 10. Presence or history or any other condition or finding that, in the investigator's opinion, makes the subject unsuitable as a candidate for crosslinking or study participation or may confound the outcome of the study.

Where

  • Atlanta, Georgia
  • Canton, Georgia
  • Cumming, Georgia
  • Douglasville, Georgia
  • Lawrenceville, Georgia
  • Marietta, Georgia
  • Snellville, Georgia
  • Asheville, North Carolina
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee
  • Johnson City, Tennessee
  • Knoxville, Tennessee

Frequently asked questions

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.

Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations

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A short prescreen based on this study's listed criteria. A coordinator confirms eligibility — this is not a medical assessment.

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Study locations

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Atlanta

Georgia

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Atlanta

Georgia

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Canton

Georgia

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RECRUITING

Cumming

Georgia

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Douglasville

Georgia

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Lawrenceville

Georgia

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Marietta

Georgia

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Snellville

Georgia

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Asheville

North Carolina

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And 3 more locations available.

Express your interest

Share your contact details and a study coordinator can follow up about screening.

Secure & Confidential

Your information is protected and will only be shared with the research team.

What participation can include

  • Study-related care provided by the research team
  • Close monitoring by medical professionals
  • Possible compensation for time and travel*
  • The option to withdraw at any time
  • Contributing to medical research that may help future patients

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Typical next steps

  1. 1.Submit this form
  2. 2.Phone screening
  3. 3.In-person assessment if eligible
  4. 4.Begin participation

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Looking for Down Syndrome (DS) Treatment in Atlanta?

Join others in Georgia exploring innovative treatment options through clinical research

Down Syndrome (DS) Treatment Options in Atlanta, Georgia

If you're searching for Down Syndrome (DS) treatment in Atlanta, participating in a clinical research study may provide access to innovative approaches under expert medical supervision. This study is actively recruiting participants in Atlanta, Canton, Cumming and surrounding areas.

Clinical trials offer participants the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments while contributing to medical research that may help future patients with Down Syndrome (DS). All study-related care is provided at no cost to participants.

Local Sites
3 locations in Georgia
Now Enrolling
Up to 225 participants
Quick Start
Screening available now

Why Consider a Clinical Trial for Down Syndrome (DS)?

Potential Benefits

  • Access to new treatment approaches before public availability
  • Close monitoring by experienced medical professionals
  • Study-related care provided at no cost
  • Contribute to medical research for Down Syndrome (DS)

What to Expect

  • Initial screening to determine eligibility
  • Regular check-ups and monitoring visits
  • Possible compensation for time and travel
  • You can withdraw at any time

Frequently Asked Questions About This Down Syndrome (DS) Study

Important Clinical Trial Information

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial participation involves potential risks and benefits. Eligibility requirements apply and will be assessed during the screening process.

Study identifier: NCT07135167. For complete study details, visit ClinicalTrials.gov. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about your medical care or participating in clinical research.