Over-expression of IGF-related peptides in stenoses of native arteriovenous fistulas in hemodialysis patients

In the stenotic arteriovenous fistula of hemodialysis patients, expression of the peptides IGF-I, IGFBP-1, -2, -3, -4 and IGF-R was significantly increased and showed a positive correlation with neointimal inflammation and hypercellularity (all p < 0.05). IGF-related peptides are most likely synthesized locally and might be involved in the initiation and/or progression of neointimal thickening of primary arteriovenous fistulas.