Dr. Ruchika is a post-doctoral research fellow at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. She earned her medical degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in Bangalore, India. At Hopkins, her work centers on studying injury and inflammation after hemorrhagic stroke, using a rat model of autologous intracerebral hemorrhage. Under the mentorship of Dr. L. Fernando Gonzalez, she has led this basic-science project and overseen multiple cerebrovascular clinical studies. She has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications and aspires to build a career as a neurosurgeon-scientist dedicated to translating laboratory discoveries into better treatments for patients.

Please tell us your background, where you are from, schooling, etc.

I earned my medical degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in Bangalore, India in 2023. Since graduating, I have spent the past two years at the Johns Hopkins Department of Neurosurgery. I have a strong interest in research within neurosurgery and am eager to pursue my residency in neurosurgery.

What led you to become involved with brain aneurysm research?

The months I spent in clinic alongside my mentor, Dr. L. Fernando Gonzalez, profoundly transformed my understanding of brain aneurysms and the evolving landscape of cerebrovascular care. Under his guidance, I saw firsthand the remarkable advances in novel imaging techniques, refined surgical approaches, and innovative endovascular devices that have revolutionized aneurysm detection and treatment. Yet, I also became acutely aware of how far we still must go to prevent rupture and optimize recovery for our patients.

Through observing both open craniotomies and minimally invasive endovascular procedures, I came to appreciate the dual identity of a cerebrovascular surgeon as both technician and innovator. In the operating room, precision and composure are paramount and in the research lab, creativity and persistence drive the next breakthrough. It is here, at the intersection of patient care and discovery, that I aspire to contribute meaningfully to improving outcomes for patients.

In the simplest terms, what is the purpose of your project?

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been implicated in the development of vasospasm and diffuse cerebral ischemia following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). However, in current preclinical models, therapies targeting NET clearance are typically only initiated after vasospasm has already occurred. Because vasospasm does not develop in every patient, there exists a critical window of opportunity between SAH and the onset of vasospasm. We propose that a detailed temporal study of NET formation after SAH will help pinpoint this window and guide the optimal timing for therapeutic intervention. Further we will test NET targeting drugs at the optimal time and study outcomes. 

In the simplest terms, what do you hope will change through your research findings?

We anticipate that these findings will enable us to identify the precise onset of NET accumulation and initiate targeted interventions before vasospasm develops. By establishing NET imaging as an early predictive marker, we can shift from reactive management of vasospasm to proactive prevention.

Why is the funding you are receiving through the Brain Aneurysm Foundation so important?

Funding from the Brain Aneurysm Foundation is critical for several reasons. First, it will directly support our investigation into NET dynamics and vasospasm. Second, securing this grant as young researcher will strengthen my track record, enhancing competitiveness for future funding and professional recognition. Finally, association with the Foundation’s network of researchers will provide invaluable mentorship and opportunities for collaboration.