Novel aspects of corneal angiogenic and lymphangiogenic privilege

Prog Retin Eye Res. 2010 May;29(3):208-48. doi: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2010.01.002. Epub 2010 Jan 25.

Abstract

In this article, we provide the results of experimental studies demonstrating that corneal avascularity is an active process involving the production of anti-angiogenic factors, which counterbalance the pro-angiogenic/lymphangiogenic factors that are upregulated during wound healing. We also summarize pertinent published reports regarding corneal neovascularization (NV), corneal lymphangiogenesis and corneal angiogenic/lymphangiogenic privilege. We outline the clinical causes of corneal NV, and discuss the angiogenic proteins (VEGF and bFGF) and angiogenesis regulatory proteins. We also describe the role of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2, -7, and MT1-MMP, anti-angiogenic factors, and lymphangiogenic regulatory proteins during corneal wound healing. Established and potential new therapies for the treatment of corneal neovascularization are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cornea / metabolism*
  • Cornea / pathology
  • Corneal Neovascularization / etiology*
  • Corneal Neovascularization / metabolism*
  • Corneal Neovascularization / pathology
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Fibroblast Growth Factors / metabolism
  • Gene Expression Regulation / physiology
  • Humans
  • Lymphangiogenesis / genetics
  • Lymphangiogenesis / physiology*
  • Matrix Metalloproteinases / genetics
  • Matrix Metalloproteinases / metabolism
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism
  • Wound Healing / physiology

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Fibroblast Growth Factors
  • Matrix Metalloproteinases