*2.6.2 Primate models for neovascularization*

NHP models do not spontaneously develop advanced forms of AMD. Laser induced NHP models of exudative AMD only provide vascular leakage for about 2–3 weeks. However, Patel *et al*. created a NHP model for chronic neovascularization by intravitreal (IVT) injection of DL-alpha-aminoadipic acid, a selective glial cytotoxin, in African green monkeys. In this model, neovascularization progressed for 8–10 weeks after injection and maintained leakage for over 90 weeks. Importantly, anti-VEGF injections decreased leakage at 2–4 weeks, then neovascularization resumed at 4–8 weeks, and repeat anti-VEGF injections at 90 weeks decreased neovascular lesions. These findings are important because this may serve as a good model for testing short and extended-release therapeutics for exudative AMD in model eyes that resemble human eyes [19].
