The present invention relates to nucleic acid molecules such as ribozymes, DNAzymes, and antisense which modulate the synthesis, expression and/or stability of an mRNA encoding one or more receptors of vascular endothelial growth factor, such as flt-1 and KDR. Nucleic acid molecules and methods for the inhibition of angiogenesis and treatment of cancer and ocular diseases are provided, optionally in conjunction with other therapeutic agents.