Corneal neovascularization: an anti-VEGF therapy review.
Corneal neovascularization is a serious condition that can lead to a profound decline in vision. The abnormal vessels block light, cause corneal scarring, compromise visual acuity, and may lead to inflammation and edema. Corneal neovascularization occurs when the balance between angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors is tipped toward angiogenic molecules. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), one of the most important mediators of angiogenesis, is upregulated during neovascularization. In fact, anti-VEGF agents have efficacy in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, neovascular glaucoma, and other neovascular diseases. These same agents have great potential for the treatment of corneal neovascularization. We review some of the most promising anti-VEGF therapies, including bevacizumab, VEGF trap, siRNA, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago 60612, USA. changr@uic.edu
Jin-Hong
JH
Chang
Nitin K
NK
Garg
Elisa
E
Lunde
Kyu-Yeon
KY
Han
Sandeep
S
Jain
Dimitri T
DT
Azar
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000818:Animals; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000068258:Bevacizumab; D016510:Corneal Neovascularization / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D034741:RNA, Small Interfering / Q000627:therapeutic use; D040262:Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor; D011993:Recombinant Fusion Proteins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors* / Q000378:metabolism; D019061:src-Family Kinases / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D034741:RNA, Small Interfering; D011993:Recombinant Fusion Proteins; C467484:VEGFA protein, human; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A; C533178:aflibercept; D000068258:Bevacizumab; D040262:Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor; D019061:src-Family Kinases