Abnormal neovascular tissue

Abnormal neovascular tissue refers to the pathological formation of new blood vessels in tissues where they are not normally present or are structurally and functionally defective (StatPearls, NBK557737). This process, often termed pathological angiogenesis, is a hallmark of several debilitating conditions, most notably wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NIH/NEI). These new vessels are typically fragile and prone to leaking fluid, lipids, and blood, which leads to tissue edema, scarring, and functional impairment. While not a single molecular target itself, this tissue is the primary focus of anti-angiogenic therapies, which aim to inhibit the signaling molecules—most significantly Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)—that drive its growth (PubMed, 25136010). Therapeutic intervention seeks to regress existing abnormal vessels and prevent the formation of new ones to preserve organ function, such as vision.

Other names

Pathological neovascularizationChoroidal neovascularizationNeovascular membraneAngiogenesis

Inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling; Photodynamic therapy-induced vascular occlusion