RPE Cells Modulate Subretinal Neovascularization, but Do Not Cause Regression in Mice with Sustained Expression of VEGF

Abstract

Despite persistent high expression of VEGF and its receptors, NV stopped growing and reached a plateau in older V-6 mice. RPE cells modulated the NV by surrounding it and reestablishing the blood-retinal barrier, but did not cause regression, although some vessels in chronic lesions were not perfused. These data do not support the conclusion of several previously reported studies, that RPE cells cause regression of CNV.