How oxidative stress affects blood vessel growth in kidney dialysis patients

Differential redox regulation of vein and arterial smooth muscle cells in AVF stenosis

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11174188

This study is looking at how a special protein might help improve the growth and function of blood vessels used in hemodialysis, which could make life easier for patients by reducing common problems with these vessels.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11174188 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of oxidative stress in the maturation of arteriovenous fistulae (AVFs), which are crucial for patients undergoing hemodialysis. The study focuses on how activating a specific protein, Nrf2, in smooth muscle cells can potentially improve the growth and function of these blood vessels. By using a mouse model, researchers will assess whether this activation can reduce complications associated with AVF stenosis, a common issue that affects over half of AVFs within six months. The goal is to find new antioxidant therapies that could enhance AVF maturation and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with kidney failure who require hemodialysis and are at risk of AVF complications.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require hemodialysis or have alternative vascular access methods may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vascular access for dialysis patients, reducing complications and enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using antioxidant therapies to improve vascular health, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.