Alteration of cytokine expression in exudative age-related macular degeneration and its targeting therapy

Abstract

Exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of central vision loss in elderly population, and its primary pathological mechanism is the formation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Recently, it is found that the balance of angiogenesis and antiangiogenic factors plays an important role in the formation of CNV, and the main factors are vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). The targeting therapy for these cytokines provides a new approach to the treatment of exudative AMD. Anti-VEGF therapy is of great effect on controlling CNV and improving visual acuity in exudative AMD patients. The purpose of this review was to summarize current advance in the study of cytokines associated with the pathogenesis of exudative AMD and its targeting therapy. Key words: Aging; Macular degeneration/drug therapy; Choroidal neovascularization; Cytokine; Vascular endothelial growth factor; Pigment epithelium-derived factor