Neovascularisation: has the angiogenic factor already been found?

Recently many soluble growth factors capable of influencing neovascularisation (angiogenesis) have been isolated and molecularly cloned. As such they are now available in a highly purified and active form. One or several of these already quite well known molecules may be of importance in the control of ocular neovascularisation. This article reviews what is presently known about growth factor control of neovascularisation with particular emphasis on both the eye and those factors that have already been molecularly cloned. In addition several recently reported inhibitors of neovascularisation are discussed. Such research is of particular interest to the ophthalmologist as knowledge gained in this area may allow for the use of both growth factors as well as growth factor inhibitors in the management of several ocular diseases involving neovascularisation.