UI Professor Tackles Rare Eye Cancer Through Novel Approaches

Colin Kenny's research on uveal melanoma using zebrafish aims to uncover new treatment possibilities.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 7:50pm

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A highly structured, abstract painting in muted earth tones featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circular patterns, and precise botanical or physical spirals, conveying the intricate inner workings of the eye and the relentless nature of uveal melanoma.A conceptual illustration of the complex biological mechanisms underlying the rare and deadly form of eye cancer that Professor Colin Kenny is dedicated to studying.Iowa City Today

University of Iowa professor Colin Kenny is dedicated to studying uveal melanoma, a rare and deadly form of eye cancer, using zebrafish as a model. His research focuses on understanding how the disease forms and spreads, as well as exploring new treatment avenues. Kenny's work is driven by a passion for discovery and a collaborative research environment at the university that bridges basic science and patient care.

Why it matters

Uveal melanoma is a rare and aggressive form of eye cancer that can be difficult to treat, especially once it has metastasized. Kenny's research using zebrafish aims to shed light on the unique biology of this disease and identify potential new therapeutic targets, which could lead to improved outcomes for patients diagnosed with this devastating condition.

The details

Kenny's lab is investigating several key aspects of uveal melanoma, including how the surrounding environment and support cells like fibroblasts can influence the behavior of melanoma cells, as well as whether certain melanocytes in the eye may have features similar to fast-growing embryonic cells that could make them more prone to forming tumors. The team is also studying the internal signals that allow melanoma cells to switch between rapid growth and aggressive spreading, as both strategies help the cancer progress.

  • Kenny first came to the University of Iowa for a postdoctoral position, then returned to join the faculty due to the university's strong focus on cancer research and collaboration.
  • Kenny's wife, Dr. Kelly Mulfaul, also joined the university as an assistant professor, allowing the couple to work together on projects related to eye disease.

The players

Colin Kenny

A professor at the University of Iowa who leads a research lab focused on studying uveal melanoma, a rare and deadly form of eye cancer, using zebrafish as a model organism.

Kelly Mulfaul

Kenny's wife, who is an assistant professor in the Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology as well as the vision institute at the University of Iowa, allowing the couple to collaborate on projects related to eye disease.

Ronald Weigel

Kenny's former department chair at the University of Iowa, who generously offered research space to help Kenny establish his lab when he first started at the university.

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What they’re saying

“There is no greater feeling than being able to collaborate with my wife on projects related to eye disease, working together to help patients survive and live with devastating conditions.”

— Colin Kenny, Professor

“When I started my lab, my chair at the time, Dr. Weigel, generously offered half of his research space so I could hire staff and get started. That moment made me realize I was in the right place — selfless support from leadership like this set the tone from day one.”

— Colin Kenny, Professor

What’s next

Kenny's lab plans to continue investigating the role of fibroblasts and embryonic-like melanocytes in the development and progression of uveal melanoma, as well as the internal signals that allow these cancer cells to switch between rapid growth and aggressive spreading. This research could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets for this rare and deadly form of eye cancer.

The takeaway

Kenny's dedication to studying uveal melanoma through innovative approaches, such as using zebrafish models, and his collaborative work with clinicians and other researchers at the University of Iowa, demonstrate the university's commitment to translating basic science discoveries into improved patient care for those affected by this devastating disease.