| abstract |
The invention provides VEGF xxx b, or an agent which selectively promotes the expression of VEGF xxx b in preference to VEGF xxx in cells of a subject or in vitro, or an expression vector system which causes the expression of the VEGF xxx b in a host organism, for use in treating or preventing microvascular hyperpermeability disorders, or in regulating the pro-angiogenic pro-permeability properties of VEGF xxx isoforms, or in supporting epithelial cell survival without increased permeability, or in reducing the nature (for example the number density and/or size) of fenestrations of epithelial filtration membranes in vivo or in vitro. Also provided is VEGF xxx b, or an agent which selectively promotes the expression of VEGF xxx b in preference to VEGF xxx in cells of a subject or in vitro, or an expression vector system which causes the expression of the VEGF xxx b in a host organism, for use in supporting epithelial cell survival. The VEGF xxx b is preferably VEGF 165 b. |