<p>The invention provides VEGFxxxb, or an agent which selectively promotes the expression of VEGFxxxb in preference to VEGFxxx in cells of a subject or in vitro, or an expression vector system which causes the expression of the VEGFxxxb in a host organism, for use in treating or preventing neuropathic and neurodegenerative disorders, or for use as a neuroprotective or neuroregenerative agent in vivo or in vitro. The VEGFxxxb is preferably VEGF165b.</p>
