The prototypical member of the VEGF family of proteins, VEGF, protects cells in the nervous system from death and degeneration. However, its clinical utility in this regard is limited, because it also induces blood vessel growth, a process known as angiogenesis. However, a new study has revealed that another VEGF family member, VEGF-B, does not have such limitations as it acts as a potent inhibitor of murine retinal cell death while exerting minimal angiogenic effects.