Targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in ocular neovascularization

Abstract

Ocular neovascularization, a common pathological feature of wet agerelated macular degeneration (AMD), proliferative and diabetic retinopathy (PDR) leads to fluid and blood leakage, scar formation and ultimately blindness. Elucidation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as a key mediator of angiogenesis led to clinically approved anti-VEGF agents. However, these drugs are associated with adverse side-effects, high costs and extensive clinical burden. The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is an alternative therapeutic target in angiogenic diseases. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway orchestrates an array of normal cellular processes, including growth, survival and angiogenesis. Here, we review the potential of targeting the PI3K pathway, to treat ocular neovascularization.