Methods of treatment of diseases that include or are characterized by inappropriate or pathological neovascularization are disclosed. These diseases include diseases of the eye, such as diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity, and choroidal neovascularization which can occur in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Disclosed methods include applying to macrophages in cell culture an agent that causes upregulation of ABCA1 transporter protein, and administering the macrophages to a subject. The agents include, without limitation, LXR agonists. Administration routes can include, without limitation, intraocular, periocular, and systemic administration.