Using nanotechnology to improve the success of arteriovenous fistulas for dialysis patients
Official title: Nanotechnology as a therapeutic approach in arteriovenous fistula maturation
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10839381 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins and special tiny drug carriers can help improve the growth of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) for people on hemodialysis, aiming to make the process easier and more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $417,075 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK129299-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10839381 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with chronic kidney failure who require hemodialysis and are at risk of AVF maturation failure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require hemodialysis or have no need for arteriovenous fistulas may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the common issue of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation failure in patients undergoing hemodialysis. The study aims to explore the role of specific proteins involved in AVF development and to test the effectiveness of drug-loaded nanoparticles that target the AVF site. By delivering medication directly to the affected area, the researchers hope to enhance the maturation process of the fistula while minimizing side effects. This innovative approach could lead to better outcomes for patients who rely on AVFs for dialysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the success rates of arteriovenous fistulas, leading to better dialysis access for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While targeted nanomedicine has shown promise in other areas, this specific application for AVF maturation is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shiu, Yan-Ting E. — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Shiu, Yan-Ting E.
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.
-
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.
-
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.