These results confirm that having additional VEGF mediated by a high platelets count in phase 1 ROP may be a protective factor against Type 1 ROP development (the VEGF pro-angiogenic role during the hyperoxia phase may prevent ischemia induced by hyperoxia), whereas having additional platelets (and VEGF) during phase 2 of ROP may cause ROP evolution in Type 1 ROP (the pro-angiogenic effects of VEGF during the hypoxic phase induces retinal pathological neovascularization). Here, VEGFA is linked to retinopathy of prematurity.