Using biodegradable scaffolds with stem cells to improve vascular access for dialysis patients
Official title: Biodegradable Radiopaque Polymeric Scaffolds Loaded with Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Image-Guided Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation and Long-Term Patency
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11054662 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help improve the success of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) for people on hemodialysis by using special materials that can help reduce inflammation and make it easier for doctors to see how well the AVF is working.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $404,850 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL159960-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054662 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with end-stage renal disease who require hemodialysis and are at risk of arteriovenous fistula failure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing hemodialysis or do not have chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the maturation and long-term success of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), which are crucial for patients undergoing hemodialysis. The approach involves developing biodegradable polymeric scaffolds that can be wrapped around the AVF, loaded with mesenchymal stem cells to reduce inflammation, and equipped with imaging agents for better diagnosis. The safety and effectiveness of these scaffolds will be tested in animal models, aiming to address common complications associated with AVF failure. By improving AVF maturation, this research seeks to reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the success rates of vascular access for dialysis, leading to better patient outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of biodegradable scaffolds and stem cells is a novel approach, similar strategies in vascular access have shown promise in preliminary studies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Melancon, Marites Pasuelo — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Melancon, Marites Pasuelo
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.