A potential therapeutic strategy for inhibition of corneal neovascularization with new anti-VEGF agents

The factors triggering corneal neovascularization involve various growth factors. The data supporting a causal role for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cornea[ neovascularization are extensive. One possible strategy for treating corneal neovascularization is to inhibit VEGF activity by competitively binding VEGF with a specific neutralizing anti-VEGF antibody. The vireo-retinal service in the recent years enjoyed a high level of success in managing choroidal. neovascularization using anti-VEGF strategies. Efficacy and tolerability have been demonstrated for drugs targeting VEGF. We herein hypothesize that topical application of new anti-VEGF agents such as pegaptanib, ranibizumab and bevacizumab are potentially useful for inhibiting cornea[ neovascularization and restoration of corneal clarity. Further investigations are needed to place these medical treatments alongside corneal neovascularization therapeutics. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.