Hemodialysis is the most widely used option in chronic dialysis treatment and requires a suitable vascular access. Unfortunately, this vascular access suffers from a high number of failures... Show moreHemodialysis is the most widely used option in chronic dialysis treatment and requires a suitable vascular access. Unfortunately, this vascular access suffers from a high number of failures responsible for a high morbidity and health care costs. However, the exact pathophysiology remains unclear. In order to unravel the mechanisms of arteriovenous fistula failure we developed a novel murine model of arteriovenous fistula failure. Using this model, we studied the effects of vascular remodeling in mice that were haplodeficient for the eln gene. The role of inflammation in arteriovenous remodeling was also investigated by administrating liposomal prednisolone and by incorporating RP105 knockout mice. Show less
Despite major microsurgical improvements the clinical outcome of peripheral nerve surgery is still regarded as suboptimal. Over the past decade several innovative techniques have been... Show more Despite major microsurgical improvements the clinical outcome of peripheral nerve surgery is still regarded as suboptimal. Over the past decade several innovative techniques have been developed to extend the armamentarium of the nerve surgeon. This thesis evaluates the potential of gene therapy in the context of peripheral nerve repair. The overall goal of the work presented in this thesis is to enhance peripheral nerve regen- eration by stimulating axonal growth and reducing misdirection. We set out to achieve this by increasing the therapeutic potential of Schwann cells through gene therapy. Show less
