In this episode of Moving Medicine Forward, we sit down with Dr. Helio Tedesco, a globally recognized transplant nephrologist from São Paulo, Brazil, who leads one of the world’s largest kidney transplant programs. Joined by CTI’s Dr. Christopher Boshkos and clinical scientist Erika Aldag, the conversation explores the challenges and innovations behind managing over 15,000 transplant patients, from telehealth expansion and donor matching to cutting-edge immunosuppressive strategies and the future of surveillance tools like cell-free DNA and the iBox model. This episode offers a rare look into the science, systems, and human dedication driving transplant care forward.
00:00 – Introduction
Host Jeremy Strand introduces the podcast and this episode’s focus on transplant innovation.
00:35 – Meet the Guests
Dr. Helio Tedesco (São Paulo), Dr. Christopher Boshkos, and clinical scientist Erika Aldag join to discuss global kidney transplant practices.
01:13 – Dr. Tedesco’s Background
Nearly 40 years in nephrology, performing 1,000+ kidney transplants yearly, with a strong research background.
03:17 – Managing Large Transplant Populations
Insights into follow-up care, decentralized nephrologist networks, and expanding telehealth use.
06:30 – Risk Stratification & Immunosuppression
How patients are matched to regimens, minimizing rejection and addressing regional challenges.
11:49 – Innovations in Induction Therapy
Dr. Tedesco explains their one-dose thymoglobulin approach and its benefits over traditional multi-dose methods.
18:34 – New Tools for Monitoring Graft Health
Use of donor-derived cell-free DNA, biopsy techniques, and barriers to widespread adoption.
24:25 – The iBox Model
Discussion on the potential of iBox as a predictive tool for clinical trials and long-term graft survival.
28:15 – Where Transplant Science Is Headed
Calls for better long-term therapies, biologics, and more patient-friendly immunosuppression options.
32:15 – Telehealth and Outpatient Management
Successes and learnings from scaling telehealth to support a large patient base.
37:41 – Closing Remarks
Appreciation for the collaboration between CTI and global transplant