Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapies for Retinal Disorders

Abstract

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are key mediator of retinal and choroidal neovascularization as well as retinal vascular leakage leading to macular edema. As such, VEGF plays an important role in mediating visually significant complications associated with common retinal disorders such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, and age-related macular degeneration. Various drugs that inhibit vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF therapies) have been developed to minimize vision loss associated with these disorders. These drugs are injected into the vitreous cavity in a clinic setting at regular intervals. This article provides an overview of the various anti-VEGF drugs used in ophthalmology and the common retinal conditions that benefit from this therapy.

Release of Pro-Inflammatory/Angiogenic Factors by Retinal Microvascular Cells Is Mediated by Extracellular Vesicles Derived from M1-Activated Microglia

“…At the same time, MMP9 is released by pericytes in inflammatory conditions [ 39 , 55 ], enhancing immune cell infiltration and oedema. The role of VEGF in DR is widely known (reviewed in [ 56 ]), and anti-VEGF strategies to block the abnormal retinal capillary leakage and angiogenesis in patients with DR have been extensively studied (reviewed in [ 57 ]). An increased VEGF release by HRPs, as a consequence of stimulation with M1-EVs, may therefore worsen DR, together with the enhanced production of Ang2 by HRECs, which induces both pericyte apoptosis [ 58 ] and proteolytic degradation of the basement membrane with the release of pericytes [ 59 ].…”

Current use of aflibercept 8 mg (eylea HD) in retinal diseases

“…Aflibercept 8 mg is one of the results of the search for effective and targeted interventions in retinal diseases, representing a paradigm shift. 1 This article explores the multifaceted facets of aflibercept 8 mg, investigating its current applications, mechanisms of action, and dynamic impact on the treatment landscape. Through an in-depth examination of recent clinical studies and emerging trends, we aimed to unravel the potential challenges associated with the utilization of aflibercept 8 mg in diverse retinal diseases.…”

Olink Profiling of Aqueous Humor Identifies Novel Biomarkers for Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration

“…Without timely intervention, this process can culminate in irreversible vision loss and eventual blindness. 3 In addition to classical clinical symptoms, various auxiliary tests, including fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT), can be utilized to diagnose wAMD. Currently, wAMD is primarily addressed through the use of antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents.…”

“…These choroidal neovascular tissues trigger a cascade of detrimental effects, including subretinal exudation, macular bleeding, and scarring. Without timely intervention, this process can culminate in irreversible vision loss and eventual blindness . In addition to classical clinical symptoms, various auxiliary tests, including fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT), can be utilized to diagnose wAMD.…”