Abstract 4365687: Arteriovenous fistula creation results in cardiac dysfunction and remodeling in a uremic pig model

Background: The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a requirement for hemodialysis therapy in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients. A consequence of AVF creation is compensatory cardiovascular hemodynamics, which are subsequently associated with cardiac remodeling. Relatedly, cardiovascular mortality and morbidity are elevated in ESKD patients, which worsens in dialysis patients. Currently, no suitable uremic large animal models exist to investigate the underlying mechanisms of AVF-induced cardiac remodeling. Research Question: This study aims to characterize cardiovascular changes secondary to AVF creation, supported by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), in a uremic pig model. Methods: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was induced via renal embolization, followed by AVF creation 28 days later. The AVF was created by anastomosis of the left common carotid artery to the left external jugular vein. AVF stenosis was alleviated 28 days thereafter via PTA, and cardiac MRI was performed at 14-, 28-, and 42-days post-PTA. Results: Increased end-diastolic volumes were observed in the left and right ventricles at day 42 vs 14 (200.8ml to 249.5ml, p=0.0457, and 204.6ml to 260.0ml, p=0.0268 respectively), while systolic function was preserved. Left ventricle (LV) stroke volume and blood flow through the aorta, pulmonary artery, and vena cava were also increased. In perivascular areas of the free wall of the LV at day 42 vs control, senescence markers showed increased p16 expression (fold change 10.21, p=0.0086) and decreased p21 expression (fold change 0.07, p=0.0357). The LV showed perivascular fibrosis (0.2% to 0.59%, p=0.021), via picrosirius red, reduced collagen-type IV expression (fold change 0.81, p=0.0089), and increased MMP2 levels (fold change 14.33, p=0.0213). Cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area was increased (from 800.9 µm 2 to 1250.0 µm 2 , p=0.0296), without CD4+ or CD68+ cell LV infiltration. Conclusion: In conclusion, AVF creation leads to modified left and right ventricular function and increased peripheral flow, potentially mediated by cellular senescence and fibrosis, resulting in progressive cardiac remodeling. This model of uremic kidney disease can now be used to evaluate mechanisms of AVF induced cardiac disease and test the efficacy of therapeutics like senolytics and anti-fibrotic agents.