Activation of EphrinB2 Signaling Promotes Adaptive Venous Remodeling in Murine Arteriovenous Fistulae

Arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) are the preferred mode of vascular access for hemodialysis. Before use, AVF remodel by thickening and dilating to achieve a functional conduit via an adaptive process characterized by expression of molecular markers characteristic of both venous and arterial identity. Although signaling via EphB4, a determinant of venous identity, mediates AVF maturation, the role of its counterpart EphrinB2, a determinant of arterial identity, remains unclear. We hypothesize that EphrinB2 signaling is active during AVF maturation and may be a mechanism of venous remodeling.