AIM: To explore expression and relationship of COX-2 and Survivin protein in the retinal neovascularization.

METHODS:Mouse model of hyperoxia-induced ischemic retinopathy were established. A novel flucorescein-dextran perfusion method was developed to assess the vascular pattern. Histologic methods were used to count blood vessel profiles in the inner retina with HE staining. Survivin and COX-2 expressions in the retina were determined by immunohistochemical method.

RESULTS: Lots of neovascularization were seen in hyperoxia group. The number of nuclei of proliferative retinal vessels increased significantly as compared with normal control group(P<0.01). The expression of Survivin was noted in the ganglion cells and the neovascularization breaking through the inner retinal. The expression of COX-2 was noted in the inner nuclear layer and ganglion cells and retinal blood vessels. The expressions of them have positive correlation(r=0.394,P<0.01).

CONCLUSION:There are high expressions of Survivin and COX-2 protein in the retinal neovascularization and they have correlation.