Which VEGF isoform is the most prevalent in AMD?

The most prevalent isoform of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is VEGF 165. This isoform plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of AMD, particularly in the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), which is a hallmark of the wet form of the disease.

VEGF 165 is known for its strong mitogenic and permeability-enhancing effects on endothelial cells, which contribute significantly to the formation of new blood vessels in the retina. In the context of AMD, the overexpression of VEGF in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and surrounding tissues leads to increased vascular permeability and subsequent leakage, promoting the development of CNV.

Furthermore, clinical studies have demonstrated that targeting VEGF 165 with anti-VEGF therapies effectively reduces CNV and improves visual outcomes in patients with wet AMD. This underscores its significant role in the disease and makes it the most clinically relevant isoform when discussing AMD progression and treatment strategies.