New VEGF antagonists as possible therapeutic agents in vascular disease.

BACKGROUND

In this review we provide the reader with an analysis of the importance of VEGF in modulating the angiogenic process in vascular diseases.

OBJECTIVES

We have described the key role of VEGF in the development of the major angiogenic diseases including ocular retinopathies, solid tumour growth and atherosclerotic plaque development.

METHODS

Following a brief description of the disease, a detailed literature review of the mechanisms through which VEGF induces promotion of neovascularisation and current anti-VEGF therapies is provided for the reader.

RESULTS/

CONCLUSIONS

Current and future potential clinical therapies are discussed in particular concerning our thoughts on future directives involving adenoviral-mediated gene targeting, nanotechnology and combinational therapies.