Rinaldo Bellomo: A clinician with a passion for preclinical research

Professor Rinaldo Bellomo was a pioneer in intensive care medicine whose influence extended beyond clinical trials to preclinical and translational research. His long-standing collaboration with the Florey Institute established ovine sepsis models that overturned dogma, demonstrating that septic acute kidney injury can occur despite increased renal blood flow, and clarifying the effects of fluids, noradrenaline, vasopressin, and angiotensin II. These studies advanced understanding of renal medullary hypoperfusion and hypoxia, guided antioxidant strategies, and inspired clinical investigation of megadose sodium ascorbate. Rinaldo also championed integration of preclinical science into the ANZICS Clinical Trials Group, legitimising dedicated sessions, fostering collaboration, and ensuring basic discoveries informed hypothesis-driven clinical trials. A gifted mentor and communicator, he inspired generations of researchers with his curiosity, humility, and passion for physiology. His legacy as both clinician and scientist underscores the enduring value of discovery research in advancing critical care.