Abstract: Inflammation is known to play a crucial role in both early and late phases of vascular remodeling in arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Macrophages are pivotal immune cells in inflammatory responses and exhibit the ability to polarize into pro-inflammatory (M1) or anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes in microenvironment. They play key roles in the initiation, progression and resolution of inflammation and in the modulation of AVF in response to surgical trauma, hemodynamic alterations, hypoxia and hyperlipidemia, thereby impacting the maturation and function of AVF. Currently, serval immunosuppressive agents and statins have been demonstrated to diminish macrophage infiltration, enable to improve AVF patency. Consequently, a comprehensive understanding of the roles of macrophages in AVF vascular remodeling is imperative. The exploration of more effective strategies for macrophage regulation may represent a novel avenue for enhancing maturity and maintaining patency of AVF.

Key words: Macrophage, Autogenous arteriovenous fistula, Inflammation