Expression of Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α, Macrophage Migration Inhibition Factor, Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and −9, and Their Inhibitors in Hemodialysis Grafts and Arteriovenous Fistulas

There were major differences in the expression patterns of hypoxia (ie, HIF-1α) and proteins regulated by HIF-1α, including MIF, pro-MMP-2, pro-MMP-9, and TIMP-1, in specimens removed from patients with PTFE grafts and AVFs. Understanding the role of HIF-1α and these proteins in hemodialysis access failure can help improve outcomes.