Trapidil inhibits endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis in the chick chorioallantoic membrane and in the rat cornea

The Chick Embryo Chorioallantoic Membrane as an In Vivo Assay to Study Antiangiogenesis

Antiangiogenesis, e.g., inhibition of blood vessel growth, is being investigated as a way to prevent the growth of tumors and other angiogenesis-dependent diseases. Pharmacological inhibition interferes with the angiogenic cascade or the immature neovasculature with synthetic or semi-synthetic substances, endogenous inhibitors or biological antagonists.The chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) is an extraembryonic membrane, which serves as a gas exchange surface and its function is supported by a dense capillary network. Because its extensive vascularization and easy accessibility, CAM has been used to study morphofunctional aspects of the angiogenesis process in vivo and to study the efficacy and mechanism of action of pro- and anti-angiogenic molecules. The fields of application of CAM in the study of antiangiogenesis, including our personal experience, are illustrated in this review article.

Fluorescein-potentiated argon laser therapy improves symptoms and appearance of corneal neovascularization

PURPOSE

To evaluate patients' self-assessment of their symptoms and cosmetic appearance after fluorescein-potentiated argon laser treatment (FPAL) for corneal inflammation associated with neovascularization. To describe the objective effects of FPAL therapy on established corneal neovascularization with secondary corneal edema and lipid keratopathy.

METHODS

Fifteen patients with corneal neovascularization resulting from various infectious and traumatic etiologies were enrolled in an open, nonrandomized pilot study. Treatment consisted of repeated sessions of intravenous fluorescein, a photosensitizer, combined with blue-green argon laser applications to abnormal corneal vessels. Patients completed a written survey to grade their symptoms and cosmetic appearance prior to treatment and at the end of the follow-up period. Objective changes in signs after FPAL treatment were described by two nonmasked ophthalmologists after slit-lamp examinations and review of serial corneal photographs.

RESULTS

Clinical symptoms of blurred vision (p <or= 0.003), photophobia (p <or= 0.03), and cosmetic appearance ( p <or= 0.02) were found to be significantly improved by the patient's subjective assessment survey. There was a trend toward pain reduction (p <or= 0.06) but no apparent reduction in tearing or foreign body sensation (p <or= ns). Objective signs of corneal edema, neovascularization, and lipid keratopathy appeared to be reduced after FPAL therapy.

CONCLUSION

FPAL therapy for corneal neovascularization, edema, and lipid keratopathy resulted in a significant reduction in symptoms and improved quality of life for 14 of 15 (93%) patients. A controlled clinical trial to confirm the reported improvement in signs observed in this pilot study should be considered.