Serum VEGF and Ang-2 Levels in Infants Before and After Laser Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity

Fetal Pediatr Pathol. 2021 Oct;40(5):407-413. doi: 10.1080/15513815.2020.1721625. Epub 2020 Feb 19.

Abstract

To investigate VEGF and Ang-2 level changes in the systemic circulation after laser photocoagulation in premature infants with ROP. Methods: Eleven infants (4 girls and 7 boys) had serum levels determined for VEGF and Ang-2, collected 1 day prior to and 7 days after ROP laser therapy. Serum levels of VEGF and Ang-2 were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Serum VEGF levels were significantly lower at 7 days after laser therapy compared to that at 1 day prior to laser therapy (p = 0.045). Serum Ang-2 levels increased significantly at 7 days after laser therapy compared with that at 1 day prior to laser therapy (p = 0.046). Conclusions: Serum VEGF levels in patients with ROP were suppressed and Ang-2 levels elevated significantly after laser therapy. The results suggest that changes in VEGF and Ang-2 serum levels may reflect regression and treatment of ROP.

Keywords: Retinopathy of prematurity; angiopoietin 2; premature infants; serum levels; vascular endothelial growth factor.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Lasers
  • Male
  • Retinopathy of Prematurity* / therapy
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A* / blood
  • Vesicular Transport Proteins / blood*

Substances

  • VEGFA protein, human
  • VPS51 protein, human
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Vesicular Transport Proteins