AIM: To explore the effect of SDF-1α on the development of experimental corneal neovascularization (CRNV). METHODS: CRNV was induced by alkali injury in mice. The expression of SDF-1α and CXCR4 in burned corneas was examined by Flow Cytometry. Neutralizing anti-mouse SDF-1α antibody was locally administrated after alkali injury and the formation of CRNV 2 weeks after injury was assessed by Immunohistochemistry. The expression of VEGF and C-Kit in burned corneas was detected by RT-PCR. RESULTS: The number of CRNV peaks at 2 weeks after alkali injury. Compared to control group, SDF-1α neutralizing antibody treatment significantly decreased the number of CRNV. RT-PCR confirmed that SDF-1α neutralizing antibody treatment resulted in decreased intracorneal VEGF and C-Kit expression. CONCLUSION: SDF-1α neutralizing antibody treated mice exhibited impaired experimental CRNV through down regulated VEGF and C-Kit expression.