Regulation of retinal vascular endothelial growth factor and receptors in rabbits exposed to hyperoxia.

Abstract

The findings of increased retinal expression of VEGF mRNA in the newborn rabbit in response to hyperoxia are most likely due to species differences. Selective targeting of VEGF(121) and Flt-1 mRNA by Cel may represent one regulatory pathway for their anti-inflammatory effects. Further studies are needed to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitors for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases associated with neovascularization.