Recognizing Dr. Phurpa, Assistant Professor, FoUGM, KGUMSB for receiving the 16th Nakatsuka Medical Award, Japan
12th August 2026: The Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan celebrated and recognized Dr. Phurpa, Assistant Professor at the University, for receiving the 16th Nakatsuka Medical Award which was presented on 8th July 2026, by the Oita University, Faculty of Medicine in Japan.
Hon’ble Registrar of the University graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and was attended by other dignitaries from relevant agencies and senior officials from the University.
This award, established in 2011, is the Oita University Faculty of Medicine Research Award, named after Professor Masayuki Nakatsuka, the first president of the Oita Medical University, the predecessor of the Faculty of Medicine. Its purpose is to revitalize and advance research by young researchers at the Oita University, Faculty of Medicine. Six researchers received awards this year, with Dr. Phurpa being one of the recipients.
His research project: “In vivo visualization and pharmacological modulation of cardiac extracellular adenosine dynamics in a zebrafish heart failure model” investigates the role of purinergic signaling in heart failure. Using a cardiomyocyte-specific GRABAdo zebrafish model, the study demonstrated increased extracellular adenosine in the failing heart. Pharmacological inhibition of the vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT) reduced extracellular purine accumulation and provided marked cardioprotection. These findings identify VNUT as a promising novel therapeutic target for heart failure.
The University offered him Tashi Khaddar and a small token of appreciation for receiving the prestigious award. The University thanked JICA Office and Oita University, Faculty of Medicine, Japan for the support and coorporation.
