SUMMARY
Martin L. Mai, M.D., focuses his research on kidney transplant. Dr. Mai's current interest is in the management of care for kidney recipients who are highly sensitized, new immunosuppression options and treatment for recurrent disease, as well as organ rejection after kidney transplant.
Dr. Mai has explored the withdrawal of immunosuppression using cellular products from living donors to create chimerism. He participated in the National Institutes of Health (NIH)-sponsored APOL1 Long-Term Kidney Transplantation Outcomes Network (APOLLO) study evaluating the effect of APOL1 in kidney transplant outcomes. He also has contributed to biomarker studies to help diagnose rejection and graft outcomes.
Focus areas
- Enrolling patients in trials to evaluate new immunosuppression options to improve long-term graft outcomes.
- Participating in studies that evaluate new treatment options for rejection or recurrent disease after kidney transplant.
- Assessing means to improve patient preparation for transplant and the transition from hospital to home.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Mai helps patients with kidney transplants live longer and have better outcomes. He studies new treatments and ways to improve current ones to lower the risks that come with taking immunosuppressing drugs, especially the risk of cancer and infection. He also looks for better ways to teach and prepare patients for transplants and to support them afterward with education, medicine, lab options and communication. This helps make the move home easier and lowers stress for patients and their caregivers.
Professional highlights
- Distinguished Clinician, Mayo Clinic, 2024.