Clinical Ocular Angiogenesis

Abstract

Neovascularization — angiogenesis of the ocular tissues and their adnexa is a widespread phenomenon and one of the most common underlying causes for severe loss of vision. During embryogenesis of the eye, the growth of vessels within tissues which later become avascular is a continuous and smooth normal process finalized only around the seventh month of gestation. Involution of the embryonic vessels is closely associated with the evolution of the adult vessel system within the eye. These processes are tightly regulated and are most probably influenced by the sequential appearance of specific inhibitors and stimulators. Any interference with the timely production (or release) of these factors results in the persistence of embryonic vessels, the lack of proper adult vessel growth and inadequate development of the ocular structures. Within the adult eye, on the other hand, the growth of new blood vessels is an integral process of tissue damage with attempts at repair.