AIM: To investigate the effects of pioglitazone on corneal neovascularization（CNV）induced by alkaline burn in rats and on expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF). ·METHODS: CNV was induced by alkaline burn in rats which were then administered pioglitazone subconjunctivally. Corneal angiogenesis was evaluated and observed with a slit lamp microscope and the VEGF and b-FGF level were determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot at different intervals. ·RESULTS: The CNV of the rats was shown two days after alkaline burn, and reached its highest level in 7-10 days. The mean values of the area and length of neovascularization and the VEGF and b-FGF levels in the pioglitazone-treated group were significantly lower than those in the control group at various time. · CONCLUSION: Local application of pioglitazone could remarkably inhibit CNV, probably by means of downregulation of VEGF and b-FGF expression.