The basic research interest of Sanjay Misra, M.D., includes understanding the mechanisms of hemodialysis graft failure.

His clinical research interest lies in peripheral atherosclerotic disease. Dr. Misra investigates outcomes and treatment of renovascular hypertension caused by renal artery stenosis. In addition, he is interested in lower limb arterial revascularizations.

Focus areas

• Animal models of hemodialysis graft failure. In his laboratory, Dr. Misra works with three postdoctoral fellows to study the mechanisms responsible for hemodialysis graft failure. They use animal models, such as the mouse, rat and pig, to understand why hemodialysis grafts fail.
• Improved delivery of hemodialysis therapies. The goal of Dr. Misra's team is to develop novel therapies to improve patency of the hemodialysis vascular access that can be delivered using image guidance, such as ultrasound, or stents and balloons coated with the therapy of interest.

Significance to patient care

Hemodialysis graft failure is a significant problem, as patients who are on renal replacement therapy require hemodialysis through either a polytetrafluoroethylene graft or arteriovenous fistula, both of which have severely limited patency. Dr. Misra is working to develop improved graft technologies as well as better ways to deliver hemodialysis therapies.