In age-related macular degeneration (AMD), exudation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) results in severe vision loss. This study investigated the role of JUN kinase (JNK) in the development of CNV. In a model of wet AMD, mice lacking JNK1 had reduced inflammation, reduced CNV and lower levels of choroidal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Intravitreal injection of a specific peptidic JNK inhibitor decreased choroidal VEGF expression and reduced pathological CNV. These results suggest that JNK inhibition could complement existing VEGF-targeted therapies in AMD.