| Popis: |
INTRODUCTION: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness among people age 60 years or older in developed countries. Currently, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy that inhibits angiogenesis and vascular permeability is the only treatment proven to increase visual acuity and arrest disease progression. Therapeutic limitations of anti-VEGF therapy include high costs, repeated intravitreal injections, and therapeutic ceilings and worsening vision outcomes despite aggressive treatment. As a result, there is a significant need to investigate other targets to address these limitations. Current molecules under investigation include targeting VEGF-C and VEGF-D, integrins, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and the Tie2/Angiopoetin-2 pathway. A literature search was conducted through November 30, 2021 on PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, and associated digital platforms with the following keywords: wet macular degeneration, age-related macular degeneration, therapy, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, VEGF-D, integrins, Tie2/Ang2, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. AREAS COVERED: The authors provide a comprehensive review of AMD disease pathways and mechanisms involved in wet AMD as well as novel targets for future therapies. EXPERT OPINION: With novel targets and advancements in drug delivery, investigational efforts aiming to address the significant limitations of standard VEGF therapy-focused AMD disease management show great promise. |
