Investigating why arteriovenous fistulas fail in patients with kidney disease
Official title: Catheter-associated molecular patterns and arteriovenous fistula failure
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11011503 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) don’t work well for people on hemodialysis, especially how central venous catheters (CVCs) might cause problems, and it hopes to find ways to help more AVFs succeed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | January 22, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $172,688 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DK138390-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011503 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with end-stage kidney disease who are starting hemodialysis and may require an arteriovenous fistula for vascular access.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing hemodialysis or those who do not require vascular access for kidney treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the reasons behind the failure of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), which are crucial for patients undergoing hemodialysis. It examines the role of central venous catheters (CVCs) and how they may contribute to complications in AVF maturation due to immune responses. By analyzing the molecular patterns and immune cell activity in patients, the study aims to identify potential preventive measures to improve AVF success rates. The research employs a combination of biological assays and patient data to explore these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for ensuring the successful maturation of arteriovenous fistulas, enhancing the quality of life for patients requiring hemodialysis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that immune responses play a significant role in vascular access complications, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez, Laisel — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Martinez, Laisel
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Cardiovascular changes after AV fistula creation and how autophagy affects it
A VA-led project looks at how blood vessel remodeling after AV fistula surgery may be helped by understanding and targeting autophagy.
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Nanoparticle delivery to prevent AV fistula narrowing
A new nanoparticle-based approach aims to prevent AV fistula narrowing in people with kidney failure who rely on dialysis.
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Molecular control of arterial-to-vein remodeling in fistula maturation
This study explores how vein cells change to help arteriovenous fistulas mature, with the aim of improving outcomes for people needing hemodialysis.
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How the protein calprotectin affects healing of dialysis fistulas
Looking at whether a protein called calprotectin causes narrowing that keeps new dialysis fistulas from becoming usable for people with kidney failure.
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Improving AV fistula longevity by guiding vein remodeling
A research project is exploring how to help veins adapt better when used for hemodialysis access so patients have fewer costly procedures.
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Bioabsorbable wrap to improve AV fistula outcomes
A new bioabsorbable wrap is being studied to help AV fistula surgery heal better and stay open longer for people needing hemodialysis.
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.