Applicants have defined the pro-inflammatory domain of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor VEGF 164(165) protein molecule using VEGF 164 protein mutants in which the heparin binding domain is inactivated through alanine scanning, site directed mutagenesis. The invention provides novel VEGF variants having a modified heparin binding domain. The VEGF variants modified heparin binding function compared to native VEGF while maintaining receptor binding function. The invention provides compositions and methods for treating disorders relating to angiogenesis and inflammation.
