To identify vascular cell paracrine angiogenic mediators, we collected AF from a subset of patients with PDR who had been treated with PRP, or who had been treated with PRP and monthly anti-VEGF therapy, but did not respond adequately to treatment (i.e., patients who had active NV despite treatment and ultimately required vitrectomy surgery despite medical management). The gene discussed is VEGFA; the disease is atrial fibrillation.