Sryana Sukdar
This week’s Rotary meeting featured three varied and thought-provoking presentations, ranging from advances in medical research to public service and civic engagement.
Sryana Sudkar opened the meeting with an update on her recent research undertaken during a four-month stay in London. Her work focuses on whether inhaled nitrite can help protect the brain during a stroke. She explained that stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted and reminded members of the well-known phrase “time is brain”. Her research explores how nitrite may be converted into nitric oxide in low-oxygen conditions, helping blood vessels relax and supporting brain-cell communication for longer. Early findings suggest nitrite may significantly reduce damaged brain tissue and could one day help buy patients precious time before full treatment can be restored.
Olivia Gold
Olivia Gold then spoke about her postdoctoral research into opioid-induced respiratory depression. Supported by her award, she travelled to Sydney to collaborate on specialist testing not available in New Zealand. Olivia is investigating whether an existing approved drug can be repurposed to stimulate breathing through the carotid body, without removing the pain-relieving effects of opioids. Her early animal studies are promising, showing rapid recovery of breathing and oxygen levels after fentanyl exposure while maintaining analgesia. This could provide an important alternative to current treatments such as naloxone.