Investigating how insulin signaling affects blood vessel growth in dialysis access.
Modulation of VSMC phenotype through the Insulin Receptor Substrate-1/Kruppel-like factor-4 signal transduction pathway: a Novel Target for AVF Dysfunction
This study is looking into why some arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), which are important for people on dialysis, don’t develop as they should, and it aims to find ways to help them mature better so patients can have fewer complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121771 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding why arteriovenous fistulae (AVF), which are crucial for dialysis, often fail to mature properly. The team will explore the insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) signaling pathway and its role in changing the behavior of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). By studying these cellular changes, the researchers aim to identify potential targets for improving AVF maturation and reducing complications for patients requiring dialysis. This work combines expertise in vascular biology and signal transduction to address a significant clinical challenge.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who require dialysis and are at risk of AVF maturation failure.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require dialysis or have already established successful dialysis access may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved techniques for ensuring the maturation of AVFs, enhancing the quality of life for dialysis patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting specific signaling pathways can improve vascular access outcomes, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xi, Gang — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Xi, Gang
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.