[Factors influencing ocular angiogenesis]

The review of literature covers the topical aspects of the interaction of proangiogenic cytokines and angiogenic inhibitors, their implication in the pathogenesis of proliferative retinopathies occurring, among other diseases, in the presence of diabetes mellitus. The paper provides the historical facts of development of the angiogenic homeostasis theory that implies that there is a dynamic equilibrium between two antagonistic systems: proangiogenic and antiangiogenic. The major angiogenic inhibitors involved in the maintenance of the normal structure and function of the eye and in the processes linked with abnormal proliferation are enumerated. Particular emphasis is laid on the pigment epithelium-derived factor that is a potent antiangiogenic agent that is directly synthesized by ocular tissues and a vascular endothelial growth factor antagonist. The review of the literature considers the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy in the context of interaction of these two growth factors.