Conclusions
Attenuation of CNV is achieved by β-adrenergic blockade. The β2-adrenoreceptors regulate VEGF expression in ChECs and RPE cells. Clinical relevance: Antagonists of β-adrenoreceptors are safe and well tolerated in patients with glaucoma and cardiovascular disease. Thus, blockade of β-adrenoreceptors may provide a new avenue to inhibit VEGF expression in CNV.
Results
Propranolol-treated mice demonstrated a 50% reduction in laser-induced CNV. Treatment with norepinephrine bitartrate stimulated Vegf messenger RNA expression and protein secretion in ChECs and RPE cells. This effect was blocked by β2-adrenoreceptor antagonism and mimicked by β2-adrenoreceptor agonists. Conclusions: Attenuation of CNV is achieved by β-adrenergic blockade. The β2-adrenoreceptors regulate VEGF expression in ChECs and RPE cells. Clinical relevance: Antagonists of β-adrenoreceptors are safe and well tolerated in patients with glaucoma and cardiovascular disease. Thus, blockade of β-adrenoreceptors may provide a new avenue to inhibit VEGF expression in CNV.