Raymond L. Heilman, M.D.

The clinical research interests of Raymond L. Heilman, M.D., are in the area of kidney transplantation.

Focus areas

Dr. Heilman's specific research themes include:

• Transplant immunosuppression
• Steroid avoidance protocols
• Value of protocol biopsy in kidney transplantation
• Development of biomarkers for monitoring outcomes in kidney transplantation

Additionally, Dr. Heilman is involved in an active clinical trial — a prospective multicenter observational study of proteogenomic biomarker panels in kidney transplant recipients. The validation of biomarkers may provide a better noninvasive tool for guiding immunosuppression therapy for kidney transplant patients.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Heilman's studies of steroid avoidance immunosuppression in kidney transplant recipients will help determine risks and benefits of avoiding corticosteroids after kidney transplantation. By avoiding corticosteroids, kidney transplant recipients may avoid the toxicities of chronic steroids, which may include new-onset diabetes mellitus, hypertension, bone disease and weight gain.

Additionally, Dr. Heilman's studies of protocol biopsy findings in kidney transplant recipients will help guide future management of kidney transplant recipients. These studies will help him and his colleagues design future immunosuppression drug protocols and better manage complications, including rejection.

Finally, the biomarker studies will help with the discovery and confirmation of the value of noninvasive tests on blood and urine to better guide management of immunosuppression and monitor for complications of kidney transplantation, including rejection.

Professional highlights

• Member, Publications Subcommittee, Clinical Trials in Organ Transplantation, National Institutes of Health