Inhibition of Hemangiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis<i>after</i>Normal-Risk Corneal Transplantation by Neutralizing VEGF Promotes Graft Survival

Abstract

There is concurrent, VEGF-A-dependent hem- and lymphangiogenesis after normal-risk keratoplasty within the preoperatively avascular recipient bed. Inhibition of hem- and lymphangiogenesis (afferent and efferent arm of an immune response) after normal-risk corneal transplantation improves long-term graft survival, establishing early postoperative hem- and lymphangiogenesis as novel risk factors for graft rejection even in low-risk eyes.