Marja Raekallio

Marja Raekallio serves as a Senior University Lecturer at the University of Helsinki, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine. She is affiliated with multiple research organizations including Helsinki One Health and the Teachers' Academy, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to veterinary medicine and commitment to educational excellence.

Dr. Raekallio's research focuses on veterinary pharmacology, particularly the effects of alpha-2-adrenoceptor agonists and antagonists in equine and canine medicine. Her work explores the metabolic, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal effects of sedative drugs like medetomidine, detomidine, and their antagonists such as vatinoxan. She has made significant contributions to understanding drug interactions, insulin dysregulation in horses, and pain management protocols for various veterinary procedures. Her research combines clinical studies with pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic approaches to improve veterinary anesthesia and analgesia practices.

Analysis of her recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on translational research with immediate clinical applications. Her work spans equine and canine pharmacology, with particular attention to the metabolic effects of alpha-2 adrenoceptor drugs, cardiovascular impacts during sedation, and novel approaches to pain management in livestock procedures. The consistent focus on vatinoxan (a peripheral alpha-2 adrenoceptor antagonist) demonstrates her leadership in developing strategies to mitigate the side effects of commonly used sedatives in veterinary practice.

Scientific Recognition:

• Eino Kaila Prize (2007)
• Member of the Teachers' Academy (2013)

Dr. Raekallio actively supervises doctoral students and leads multiple research projects including 'Provet Cloud -portaali' (2025-2026), 'SELS/Tutkimusportaalin rakentaminen' (2024-2028), and 'HepoOST' (2023-2025). Her work in the 'Developing Assessment Practices in Higher Education' project demonstrates her commitment to advancing veterinary education methodology alongside her research activities. She also participates in projects related to animal welfare, particularly focusing on improving pain management during calf disbudding procedures.

Her research group collaborates extensively within the Helsinki One Health framework, connecting veterinary medicine with human health research. The laboratory work frequently involves both clinical studies with client-owned animals and controlled experimental studies using animal models to investigate pharmacological mechanisms.