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Find answers to all your questions about the Dr. GPCR Ecosystem: courses, podcasts, memberships, events, and more. Frequently asked questions Webinar University Vault Premium Pricing GPCR Masterclass YC-Biotech YC-VC YC-CRO Terrys Corner Media Partner General University Dr.GPCR Podcast What are GPCR webinars? GPCR webinars are live online scientific sessions focused on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) biology, pharmacology, signaling, and drug discovery. Each session explores mechanistic models, translational challenges, and real-world therapeutic implications. These webinars are designed for scientists who want deep, data-driven discussion rather than surface-level overviews. Who should attend these GPCR pharmacology webinars? These webinars are ideal for: • GPCR pharmacologists • Medicinal chemists working on receptor targets • Structural biologists • Translational scientists • Biotech and pharmaceutical researchers • Postdoctoral fellows and graduate researchers entering drug discovery If you work directly with receptor systems, ligand design, efficacy modeling, or signaling pathways, these sessions are built for you. Are these GPCR webinars suitable for industry scientists? Yes. The content is highly relevant for biotech and pharmaceutical scientists. Topics frequently address: • Receptor efficacy and bias • Allosteric modulation • PK/PD relationships • Irreversible binding and safety considerations • Translational pharmacology challenges The discussions are grounded in practical drug discovery, not just academic theory. How are these different from academic seminars or conferences? Most academic seminars focus on a single dataset or publication. These GPCR webinars focus on conceptual frameworks, models, and translational insight that apply across programs. Unlike large conferences, the live format allows direct interaction, questions, and scientific debate in real time. The goal is not presentation — it is scientific advancement. Are the webinars live or pre-recorded? The sessions are delivered live to allow direct Q&A with the speaker. Live participation gives you the opportunity to ask technical questions and engage in discussion with other scientists in the GPCR community. Selected recordings may be available afterward through the Dr. GPCR platform. Do I need prior knowledge of GPCR pharmacology? These webinars are designed for scientists with foundational knowledge in receptor pharmacology, signaling, or drug discovery. While some sessions may introduce key concepts, the overall level is advanced and assumes familiarity with pharmacological models and terminology. What topics are typically covered in GPCR webinars? Topics may include: • Receptor efficacy and operational models • Allosteric modulators (PAMs and NAMs) • Biased agonism • Dose–response modeling • Calcium and signaling assays • Drug–receptor kinetics • Translational pharmacology strategies • GPCR structure–function relationships Each session focuses on mechanistic clarity and practical application. Are these GPCR webinars free? Yes. All live GPCR webinars are free to attend. To receive early notifications, event reminders, and priority updates, you can join the Dr. GPCR Ecosystem as a free member. If you would like to go deeper beyond the live sessions, you can explore the full GPCR educational library inside Dr. GPCR University.(https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/gpcr-university) Will attending help with continuing education or professional development? Yes. These webinars are designed to support ongoing scientific development in GPCR pharmacology and drug discovery. They provide exposure to current thinking, advanced modeling approaches, and expert interpretation of complex receptor behavior. For researchers working in biotech, pharma, or academia, this type of continuing education can strengthen both technical expertise and strategic thinking. How often are new GPCR webinars added? New live GPCR webinars are added regularly as part of the Dr. GPCR Ecosystem’s ongoing educational initiative. Upcoming sessions are announced in advance and updated on this page. Where can I find advanced GPCR training online? Dr. GPCR provides live GPCR webinars, masterclasses, and in-depth educational resources focused specifically on receptor pharmacology and drug discovery. These programs are designed for scientists seeking advanced, mechanism-focused training in GPCR biology.

Monitor GPCR internalization in real time with pHSense™ – no-wash, TR-FRET reagents from Revvity. Fast, clear, live-cell receptor trafficking detection. Unlock microscopy-free real-time GPCR internalization with pHSense pHSense™ probes are optimized reagents for plate readers, specifically designed to study internalization using time-resolved fluorescence (TRF) detection. They offer high-sensitivity, no-wash detection of internalization events in a scalable, plate-based format. This technology supports robust analysis even at low endogenous receptor expression levels. Suitable for basal/constitutive and agonist-induced GPCR internalization Compatible with TRF plate readers No-wash protocol simplifies workflow Formats available for modified GPCR cell lines or unmodified primary cells Explore pHSense Products Powered by Revvity’s legacy of innovation in translational science. Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Partner Visit Website Precision Tools for Translational Science Revvity is a global leader in life science innovation, delivering tools and technologies that bridge the gap between discovery and real-world impact. With decades of expertise and an unwavering focus on precision, Revvity empowers scientists to simplify complex workflows, accelerate discovery, and drive breakthroughs in drug development, diagnostics, and disease biology. Whether you’re decoding signaling pathways or designing the next generation of therapeutics, Revvity isn’t just a provider—they’re your partner in discovery. Discover pHSense™ portfolio From binding to signaling to internalization: Cell-based fluorescence assays for complete GPCR characterization The principle of pHSense™ relies on the pH-dependent fluorescence activation of a europium-labeled antibody to monitor receptor internalization in live cells. Neutral pH = low signal: The probe is minimally fluorescent at extracellular neutral pH (≥7), which means it doesn't emit a strong signal when bound to the surface. Internalization into acidic compartments = signal activation: Upon receptor-mediated endocytosis, the probe is internalized into acidic intracellular compartments (like early/late endosomes and lysosomes). The europium complex becomes increasingly fluorescent as the pH drops, enabling dynamic tracking of internalization. Time-Resolved Fluorescence (TRF) = High Signal-to-Background: Europium’s long-lived fluorescence allows TRF detection, which effectively filters out short-lived background signals. This results in high sensitivity and specificity in no-wash, plate-based live-cell assays. pHSense™ Eu Anti-FLAG Designed for the detection of FLAG-tagged receptor and membrane protein internalization. View Product pHSense Eu SNAP Labeling Reagent Can be used to label receptors and membrane proteins carrying an extracellular SNAP sequence with a pHSense probe to monitor their internalization View Product pHSense Fab Anti-Human or Anti-Mouse IgG Fab fragments for monitoring GPCR and antibody internalization in unmodified cells The Fab Anti-Human IgG Eu-conjugate can be used in combination with a neutral anti-GPCR to address unmodified receptors in primary cells View Product The Fab Anti-Mouse IgG2 Eu-conjugate is suited to study mouse biologics targeting GPCR and confirm their internalization effects on receptors. View Product The pHSense™ Advantage Clarity. Consistency. Compatibility. Purpose-Built for Live-Cell Internalization Assays The pHSense™ family of europium-labeled, pH-sensitive reagents is designed to simplify and accelerate the study of GPCR and membrane protein internalization in live cells. These reagents are fully compatible with plate-based, no-wash workflows and use time-resolved fluorescence (TRF) to eliminate background noise—delivering clear, quantifiable signals as targets move into acidic intracellular compartments. What Sets pHSense™ Apart ✅ Time-resolved detection minimizes background noise, which enhances detection sensitivity. ✅ No-wash protocol preserves cell integrity and kinetic detection. ✅ High-throughput ready: faster time-to-results and streamlined data acquisition. ✅ Comprehensive validation: validated for GPCRs, but also antibodies and ADCs. ✅ Versatility across suspension and adherent cells The Full GPCR Toolkit by Revvity Every step of the signaling cascade. One trusted source. GPCRs are among the most powerful and complex targets in biomedical research. Revvity offers a comprehensive reagent portfolio to match that complexity—supporting every stage of the signaling pathway, from ligand binding and G-protein activation to intracellular signaling readouts. With formats including TR-FRET, radioligand binding, cAMP, IP-One, and phospho-protein assays (ERK, AKT, CREB, MEK), this toolkit is built for speed, reproducibility, and translational insight. Proprietary no-wash technologies help reduce hands-on time while maintaining exceptional data quality—so you can move fast without compromise. View Reagents Explore Revvity’s GPCR Assay Technologies Tools designed to illuminate every step of GPCR signaling—from binding to downstream response. Ligand binding Measure receptor engagement with high sensitivity using TR-FRET, radioligand, and Fluorescent Tag-lite® formats. G-Protein Activation Quantify Gs, Gi, and Gq activation in real time with cAMP, GTP, and IP-One assays. Arrestin Recruitment Detect β-arrestin recruitment with TR-FRET and luminescence assays tailored for biased signaling studies. Intracellular Signaling Track key downstream events like ERK, AKT, and CREB phosphorylation with high-throughput precision. Build Your GPCR Assay Workflow Meet the Team behind pHSense™ Eric TRINQUET Sr Director Life Sciences Reagents, Revvity Eric Trinquet is a recognized expert in the field of immunoassays and fluorescence technologies. He currently leads Revvity's Research and Development activities, focusing on biochemical and cellular assay platforms related to Life Sciences Reagents. Before joining Revvity, Eric worked for Cisbio Bioassays first as Director of Technological Development and then as R&D Director. His career is marked by significant contributions, from introducing HTRF technology in the field of high-throughput screening to developing innovative solutions such as the IP-One kit for studying G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) and the Tag-lite platform. Elodie DUPUIS R&D Senior project manager, team leader. Elodie Dupuis earned her Master’s degree in biology and biotechnology engineering from the University of Sciences of Nîmes and the Ecole des Mines engineering school (France) in 2009. She then joined Cisbio Bioassays, and later Revvity, as project leader and team manager in the Research & Development department, leading her team on the development of innovative HTRF™ and AlphaLISA™ kits for pharma, biotech, and academic partners. Through her research contributions, she has co-authored numerous scientific publications and holds several patents as an inventor. She has been leading collaborative projects with public research institutes and pharmaceutical companies, most notably the joint Revvity/Institute of Functional Genomics team, EIDOS. In 2020, together with her team, she initiated a long-term research effort that enabled the creation of a new and innovative portfolio for GPCRs, antibody drug conjugates, and several other applications: pHSense™. 2025 marked the commercial launch of the first pHSense products by Revvity. Mathis LAFFENETRE Product Manager, Immunoassay Reagents. Mathis holds a biotechnology engineering degree from the National School of Biomolecule Technology of Bordeaux and an MS in biomedical business management from the Grenoble School of Management. He joined Revvity (then Cisbio) in 2016 as part of the scientific marketing effort to build brand recognition for the HTRF technology and accelerate the company’s reagents use in academic labs, biotech companies, and pharma. In the following years, he held several marketing and strategic positions in France and the US, primarily related to the Immunoassay portfolio. As of 2025, he is part of the Immunoassay & Imaging Reagents Portfolio group as a product manager for the GPCRs, and is responsible for supporting the adoption and expansion of the reagent portfolio into the hands of scientists and researchers. Inside the Science: A Conversation with Revvity's Dr. Eric Trinquet From Rare Earth Probes to Internalization Assays: The pH Sense Story If you’ve ever used HTRF or wondered what goes into making a product worthy of your next experiment, this is your backstage pass. More about this conversation Our Partnership Dr. GPCR Spotlights Revvity’s pHSense™ Reagents for Real-Time GPCR Internalization A new reagent family designed to unlock high-throughput internalization workflows—now featured across the Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Boston, MA – September 2025 — Dr. GPCR, the global nonprofit platform dedicated to advancing GPCR research and drug discovery, is proud to spotlight the launch of pHSense™, a new reagent family from Revvity designed to bring unprecedented clarity, speed, and scalability to the study of receptor internalization. Internalization is a core—but often overlooked—dimension of GPCR biology. Traditionally, studying it has meant long workflows, low throughput, or expensive imaging platforms. pHSense™ changes that by combining europium-based, pH-sensitive probes with no-wash, live-cell protocols and TRF-based detection—making it possible to monitor internalization in real time, in standard plate-based assays. “When we saw dose-dependent internalization in endogenous GLP1R cells—without microscopy—that was the turning point,” said Dr. Eric Trinquet, Director of Research and Development at Revvity. “We knew pHSense could offer something truly new to the GPCR field.” A Tool Designed for Real Research Needs Built on more than two decades of GPCR assay innovation, pHSense™ was developed to overcome three persistent barriers in internalization studies: Complexity of imaging-based workflows Lack of scalability for high-throughput screening Difficulty detecting endogenous receptor activity With pHSense™, scientists can finally move beyond proxy readouts and track GPCR internalization as it happens—even at physiological expression levels. All four formats are validated in well-established models like GLP1R and Mu opioid receptor (MOR), and are compatible with HTRF plate readers already used in most labs. Related Articles How Breakthroughs Happen: Eric Trinquet on Innovation, Serendipity & GPCRs Discover how Dr. Eric Trinquet, creator of HTRF and IP-One assays, turned failure into breakthrough tools for GPCR science. Learn why play, serendipity, and partnerships fuel innovation—and how this mindset can transform your research and biotech career. Dr. GPCR Podcast Oct 16, 2025 4 min read The Truth About GPCR Product Launches: Years in the Making What it really takes to launch a GPCR product—years of failure, science, and strategy. Go behind the scenes of pH-Sense with Revity’s Dr. Eric Trinquet. Dr. GPCR Podcast Oct 8, 2025 4 min read Innovative Data-Driven Solutions: The pHSense Revolution A powerful new tool tracks GPCR internalization in native cells—no imaging, no overexpression. Learn how pH Sense changes the game for drug discovery. Dr. GPCR Podcast Sep 26, 2025 3 min read Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Partner Contact Revvity

Support the Adhesion GPCR Workshop 2024 with a donation. Help advance GPCR research, enable education, and connect the scientific community. DONATIONS Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Our Sponsors

Meet the sponsors who make the Adhesion GPCR Workshop 2024 possible, supporting global collaboration and innovation in GPCR research. Home Registration Full Agenda Venue Travel Tips Sponsors Special Issue on Adhesion GPCRs OUR SPONSORS Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Sponsor Us Platinum Sponsors Bronze Sponsors Collaborating partners Contact us for sponsorship Register for the Adhesion GPCR 2024 Learn more about the Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 Up About the event Learn more about the Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 and its preliminary program. Up About the venue Discover Cinvestav, the host venue for the upcoming workshop. Up Abstract Submission Submit your research abstracts following our guidelines to present at the conference. Up Traveling Tips Find essential tips about Mexico City, including transportation options and local insights.

Turn GPCR discovery chaos into clarity—Yamina’s Corner offers expert GPCR strategy, CRO guidance, and tailored scientific support to accelerate your pipeline. Home About News Get in Touch Welcome Turn GPCR Chaos Into Insights Expert strategic and scientific consultancy to accelerate your pipeline Book My Consultation Critical Bottlenecks in Your GPCR Pipeline ❌ Overwhelming pharmacology Data ❌ Suboptimal CRO Partnerships ❌ Stalled Pipeline Progression ❌ Uncertainty in GPCR Investments Advisory Focus Areas Expert support for Biotech innovators, VC investors and CRO partners Biotech Pipeline Acceleration For Biotech Leaders & Scientists Actionable Data Insights: Translate complex GPCR pharmacology into clear decisions for lead optimization and candidate selection. Accelerated Program Progression: Design robust assay cascades and establish key go/no-go points to speed up your pipeline. Optimized CRO Collaboration: Streamline internal R&D and external CRO workflows to prevent delays and ensure preclinical success. Fuel Discovery VC Due Diligence & De-risking For Venture Capital Firms De-risk GPCR Investments: Identify critical scientific red flags and technical gaps in GPCR assets before committing capital. Actionable Scientific Validation: Ensure target companies execute the right GPCR pharmacology experiments to generate robust, decision-making data. Clear Platform Assessment: Gain rapid, independent insight into GPCR platform risks and true therapeutic potential to inform investment strategy. Fast-Track Discovery CRO Partnership & Optimization For Contract Research Organizations Elevate Scientific Offerings: Refine and optimize your GPCR assay platforms and in vitro models to deliver superior data quality and results. Enhance Client Project Delivery: Streamline workflows and improve scientific execution to increase client satisfaction and secure repeat business. Differentiate Your Market Position: Showcase your specialized GPCR expertise to stand out from competitors and attract high-value biotech and pharma partners. Power Discovery How We Work: Your Path to GPCR Success 1 Initial Strategic Alignment We begin with a focused discussion of your current GPCR program and critical challenges, identifying precise areas for collaboration. 2 Define Actionable Objectives Together, we clarify specific, measurable goals, from target validation and assay development to CRO selection or portfolio strategy, ensuring a tailored approach. 3 Collaborative Execution & Impact I integrate directly into your discovery process to remove roadblocks, enhance execution, and generate actionable scientific data, driving confident decisions and sustained preclinical progress. Advance My Discovery My Approach: Precision Guidance for GPCR Programs I provide the focused, scientific expertise that accelerates complex GPCR discovery programs, ensuring clarity and de-risking your path from target to candidate. I integrate seamlessly with biotech, VC, and CRO teams as a trusted, objective partner. Integrated Strategic Partnership We collaborate directly with your scientific and leadership teams. This partnership prevents bottlenecks and optimizes resource allocation, ensuring every strategic decision efficiently propels your program forward and aligns with critical business objectives. Biology-First, Data-Driven Solutions Every recommendation is rooted in GPCR biology, pharmacology experience. This provides evidence-based strategies leveraging deep GPCR expertise to overcome specific scientific challenges and maximize your program's potential. Accelerated Preclinical Progression I streamline critical operational processes, from advanced assay design and CRO management to rapid go/no-go decision-making. This focused execution accelerates preclinical milestones and maximizes the efficiency and return on your R&D investment. Core Values: The Foundation of Every Successful Partnership My advisory is built on principles that ensure clarity, minimize risk, and drive enduring results in GPCR drug discovery. Scientific Integrity Every recommendation is rigorously evidence-based, not reliant on assumptions. This ensures robust, defensible decisions that de-risk your program from early discovery to regulatory milestones. Operational Discipline I instill structure and consistency across every phase of your discovery process. This approach eliminates inefficiencies and standardizes workflows, accelerating your path to a preclinical candidate. Collaborative Partnership I operate as an embedded, invested partner with your team. Your program's success is my priority, fostering a transparent, results-driven environment that maximizes collective expertise and accelerates progress. About Yamina A. Berchiche I'm Yamina A. Berchiche, and I understand the intricate challenges of GPCR drug discovery. Small missteps can derail entire programs: underperforming assays, off-track CROs, and data that fails to drive decisions. That's precisely where my expertise becomes your strategic advantage. With over two decades dedicated to GPCR pharmacology across biotech, academia, and the non-profit sector, I bring unparalleled scientific depth and operational precision to every project. My work focuses on integrating directly with your team as a strategic partner. Whether it's optimizing CRO selection, building robust internal capabilities, or translating complex data into decisive program advancements, I help you eliminate friction, align efforts, and accelerate your path to success. As the founder of Dr. GPCR, I also offer a unique, broad perspective and trusted relationships within the field. This allows me to connect you with critical insights and key collaborators, further accelerating your progress in GPCR drug discovery. Let's Talk Discovery What Partners Say Here’s what it’s like to work together — from people I’ve supported on both sides of the bench. Anne Marie Quinn, CEO Montana Molecular As a CRO, we were delivering high-quality data across complex biotech programs, but translating that data into aligned, timely decisions across stakeholders wasn’t always straightforward. After partnering with her, communication became clearer, deliverables were better defined, and collaboration across teams ran more smoothly. She helped streamline complex projects and made the CRO–client relationship more effective and productive. Terry Kenakin, PhD UNC Chappel Hill In complex pharmacological discovery programs, scientific ambiguity and fragmented execution can quietly erode progress. Yamina brings the clarity, rigor, and structured decision-making that keeps programs on track. Across multiple discovery efforts, she established clear decision gates and alignment across teams, materially strengthening candidate progression and prioritization. Her involvement consistently elevates both the scientific discipline and the quality of portfolio-level decisions. Murat Tunaboylu, CEO Antiverse Before engaging Yamina, our team faced hurdles navigating complex early discovery decisions. We had critical program choices ahead and needed clearer direction. Bringing her in marked a meaningful shift. We made confident progress on a pivotal program and gained clarity on our next strategic focus. Yamina was instrumental in unifying our scientific and operational teams, strengthening alignment and driving momentum across execution. Abishek Iyer, CEO Ashta Therapeutics Before working with Yamina, we had solid internal momentum but needed to better align our biology, assay priorities, and compound strategy into a cohesive, decision-driven plan. Her input helped us structure the screening funnel, define clear go/no-go criteria, and integrate ADME and mechanistic assays in a way that reflected both biological rationale and operational realities. She has been a true thought partner — not only on tactical execution, but on pressure-testing hypotheses, challenging assumptions, and maintaining disciplined forward progress. Book Book My 30 Minutes Strategy Call Menu Home Services About News Ready to collaborate? Let’s talk about how I support GPCR discovery, pharmacology strategy, and cross-functional execution across biotech, VC, and CRO teams. Get in touch Connect LinkedIn Podcast Dr. GPCR Calendly ©2023-2025 All rights reserved by FindYooour, LLC & Dr. GPCR Corp Proudly created with Wix.com

< Back to Vault Title I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. This Vault is available to Dr. GPCR Premium members. Built for founders who prefer clarity over chaos and confusion. Biotech Decision Vault by Attila Foris Strategic Business & Operating Systems Advisor Dr. GPCR Ecosystem

< Back to Webinars 📅 Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 3:00:00 PM UTC Get Live Updates Be notified when new Webinars are scheduled. 🤝 Webinar in collaboration with: Celtarys Research Fluorescent Probes for GLP-1R and GIPR Imaging: From Cell Assays to In Vivo Systems Fluorescent tools for imaging endogenous incretin receptors across biological systems Interrogating Incretin Receptor Biology Across Biological Complexity GLP-1 and GIP receptors have emerged as central targets in metabolic medicine, yet their precise localization, nanodomain organization, and functional engagement within complex biological systems remain incompletely understood. Fluorescent chemical probes offer one of the most direct approaches for investigating receptor distribution and dynamics in native contexts — without relying on receptor overexpression or genetic modification. This webinar introduces two families of advanced fluorescent probes developed specifically for working with endogenous GLP-1R and GIPR across a range of biological complexity. Attendees will gain a technical understanding of probe design, selectivity, and validated applications — as well as practical guidance on handling, reconstitution, dilution, and storage to support immediate laboratory deployment. LUXendin Family Red and far-red fluorescent GLP-1R antagonists derived from Exendin4(9–39). Enable high-specificity labeling of endogenous GLP-1R in live and fixed cells, pancreatic islets, and whole-organ preparations — without triggering receptor activation. Available across multiple spectral ranges for confocal, super-resolution, and intravital imaging. daLUXendin Family Fluorescent dual agonists for both GLP-1R and GIPR (daLUXendin544+ and daLUXendin660+), structurally related to tirzepatide. Enable simultaneous visualization of endogenous receptor localization and nanodomain organization in pancreatic islet cells and neural sites of action in vivo. Speakers Dr. Johannes Broichhagen Group Leader Leibniz Research Institute for Molecular Pharmacology (FMP), Berlin Dr. Broichhagen trained in chemistry at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, completed his doctorate at LMU Munich in 2014, and undertook postdoctoral work at EPFL (Switzerland) and the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research (Heidelberg). Since 2020, he leads an independent research group at the FMP Berlin. His group focuses on the development of chemical tools — including fluorescent ligands and photopharmacological compounds — to investigate GPCR biology with spatial and temporal precision. He is a principal architect of the LUXendin and daLUXendin probe families. Dr. David Hodson Robert Turner Professor of Diabetic Medicine Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford Dr. Hodson is a veterinary surgeon by training who pursued postdoctoral studies at the CNRS in Montpellier before establishing his independent laboratory at Imperial College London as a Diabetes UK RD Lawrence Fellow. He previously served as Professor of Cellular Metabolism and Institute Deputy Director at the University of Birmingham. His research group develops and applies novel technologies to investigate GLP-1 and GIP receptors — two class B GPCRs central to glucose homeostasis, food intake regulation, and inflammation — within complex tissue environments including the pancreas and brain. His work carries direct translational relevance to diabetes and obesity therapeutics. Organizers Celtarys Research Celtarys develops and commercializes fluorescent chemical tools and related screening services that enable fluorescence-based methods across drug discovery. The company's portfolio is built around high-affinity, selective fluorescent ligands for GPCRs, supporting researchers working at the interface of chemical biology and pharmacology. Broad GPCR fluorescent ligand portfolio across multiple receptor families Fluorescence Polarization, HTRF, and High-Content Screening formats Fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry applications Screening services using proprietary probes in living cells Custom chemical development for probe and ligand creation Dr. GPCR Dr. GPCR is a membership-based nonprofit ecosystem dedicated to advancing GPCR-targeted drug discovery. It provides curated industry intelligence, expert-led masterclasses, and structured engagement opportunities for scientists and biotech leaders working across pharmacology, translational research, and therapeutic development. Curated intelligence on GPCR drug discovery trends and developments Expert-led webinars and masterclasses with leading researchers Structured networking for scientists and biotech professionals Nonprofit model — community-first, member-driven Free membership tier available Previous Webinar Next Webinar Don’t Miss the Next Live Session Dr. GPCR membership gives you access to all upcoming live, interactive webinars. Free. Takes less than a minute to join. Cancel anytime. Sign Up for Free

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Brian Shoichet About Dr. Brian Shoichet BSc in Chemistry from MIT, Ph.D. with Tack Kuntz at UCSF; Postdoc with Brian Matthews in protein stability-activity tradeoffs, crystallography; started my independent lab at Northwestern University Medical School (1996) was recruited back to UCSF in 2003. Dr. Brian Shoichet on the web Google Scholar Shoichet Lab Twitter Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Sai Prasad Pydi About Dr. Sai Prasad Pydi Dr. Sai Prasad Pydi obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Manitoba – Canada, where he was introduced to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) by Prof. Prashen Chelikani . His doctoral research focused on the structural and functional characterization of bitter taste receptors (T2Rs). In 2014, Dr. Pydi joined Dr. Jurgen Wess’s lab at the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) - NIH, USA as a postdoctoral fellow and trained on understanding the physiological role of GPCR signaling and beta-arrestins in diabetes and obesity. In February 2021, Dr. Pydi joined BSBE department at IIT-Kanpur. The main target of Dr. Pydi's laboratory is to develop GPCR-based drugs for the treatment of obesity and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) by exploring metabolically important signaling pathways in immune cells and insulin-sensitive tissues (liver, pancreas, skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and brain). His laboratory uses knock-out and transgenic mouse models, along with different cell culture systems, to understand the role of immune cell GPCRs and their cross-talk with other insulin-sensitive tissues regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Dr. Sai Prasad Pydi on the web Molecular Metabolism & Cell Signaling Laboratory Website Twitter.com Research Gate PubMed Google Scholar Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Full Agenda Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Download PDF Program HERE < Back to Full Agenda Posters Interrogating The Role Of CELSR1 (ADGRC1) In Breast Cancer Caroline Formstone Generation and characterization of collecting duct specific GPR56 knockout mice Jianxiang Xue Anti-Tumorigenic Role of Brain Angiogenesis Inhibitor 3 (BAI3) in WNT-Activated Medulloblastomas Virginea de Araujo Farias Conformational And Functional Coupling Between Extracellular and Transmembrane Regions of a Holo-Adhesion GPCR Szymon P. Kordon Deorphanization Of The Adhesion GPCRs GPR110 and GPR116 Tingzhen Shen Self-Cleavage of GPR110 SEA Domain and Its Impact on GAIN Domain Autoproteolysis Bill Huang Tethered Agonist Dependent ADGRL3 Signaling Activity In The G12/13 Pathway Júlia Rosell Endocytic Cues Determine the Signaling Profile of Adhesion GPCR ADGRL1 / Latrophilin-1 Sheila Ribalta-Mena GPR110 modulates anxiety-like behaviors and memory function in mice potentially through neuronal and neuroimmune alterations during neurodevelopment Mariam Melkumyan Interrogating The Role Of CELSR1 (ADGRC1) In Breast Cancer Caroline Formstone Abstract "Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer amongst women. Ductal carcinomas are increasingly diagnosed but identifying which will progress to invasive disease remains difficult highlighting an urgent need for new biomarkers that distinguish ductal carcinomas on this basis. Planar cell polarity (PCP) proteins contribute to tumour growth and invasion. Recent studies identify CELSR1, a key PCP gene, as a novel biomarker for early-stage breast cancer. CELSR1 is reactivated in luminal-type ductal carcinomas. The impact of CELSR1 on cancer progression, however, is unclear. Our working hypothesis is that distinct CELSR1 protein isoforms differentially regulate tissue adhesiveness by influencing the stability/plasticity of cell-cell and cell-matrix contacts. Notably, our pilot data from luminal-type breast cancer cell lines representative of breast carcinomas with lower versus higher invasive potential reveal differential enrichment of CELSR1 protein isoforms. To test the specific hypothesis that biased expression of CELSR1 isoforms will predict invasive potential of a luminal breast carcinoma we will (a) determine, via loss-of-function assays in vitro and in vivo, whether CELSR1 protein isoforms differentially influence the stability of cell-cell and/or cell-matrix adhesions to dictate breast tumour invasive mechanism (b) quantify CELSR1 isoform expression (mRNA and protein) within patient luminal carcinoma samples exhibiting non-invasive or invasive features, the latter including heterogeneous tumours with mixed pathology. Through study of known protein isoforms of CELSR1, which would be missed in gene expression microarray analyses, we hope to illuminate the prognostic potential of CELSR1 for early-stage breast cancer." Authors & Affiliations "Klena, Ladislav University of Hertfordshire" About Caroline Formstone "Cell and developmental biologist with a focus on how planar cell polarity drives complex tissue morphogenesis. I study the cell and tissue level consequences of its failure in foetal development and of its reemployment in cancer" Caroline Formstone on the web University of Hertfordshire Generation and characterization of collecting duct specific GPR56 knockout mice Jianxiang Xue Abstract "GPR56 is a multifunctional adhesin G protein-coupled receptor involved in diverse biological processes. The role of GPR56 in the kidneys has been understudied. A recent study demonstrated that GPR56 in the glomerular endothelial cells promoted diabetic kidney disease progression via regulation of eNOS. Using RNAscope in situ hybridization (ISH) for GPR56, aquaporin 2 and NKCC2 (thick ascending limb, TAL marker), we detected GPR56 mRNA highly expressed in the collecting duct and TAL of the loop of Henle with limited expression in the proximal tubule. To determine the physiological role of GPR56 in the collecting duct, we generated a collecting duct-specific GPR56 knockout (GPR56CD-KO) mouse model by crossing GPR56flox (Control) with cadherin 16 Cre mice. The deletion of GPR56 in the collecting duct was confirmed by RNAscope ISH. GPR56CD-KO mice were born at predicted Mendelian frequencies, appeared grossly indistinguishable from Con mice, and developed normally. For baseline phenotypic characterization, blood gas analysis showed no differences in blood pH, blood HCO3-, blood Na+, or blood K+ between GPR56CD-KO and control mice. Metabolic cage experiments demonstrated no differences in fluid intake, urine volume, urinary pH or urine osmolality between genotypes in baseline. 24hr water deprivation experiment showed that GPR56CD-KO mice can concentrate urine as effectively as control mice. In conclusion, we successfully generated collecting duct-specific GPR56 knockout mouse and found no defective urine concentrating ability in GPR56CD-KO mice. This mouse model will be useful to delineate the collecting duct-specific role of GPR56 for renal function, including acid-base regulation." Authors & Affiliations "Hailey Steichen, Krystin Eaton, Teagan Yan, and Nathan Zaidman; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico" About Jianxiang Xue "I am a postdoctoral researcher working in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico. I earned my PhD degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of South Florida. During my graduate studies, using various transgenic mouse models and expertise in intestinal and renal physiology, I systematically characterized the function of sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 in the intestine and kidneys for fluid and electrolyte homeostasis and acid-base balance. My predoctoral work was supported by an American Heart Association fellowship. Since staring my postdoctoral training, I have continued to develop my expertise to answer fundamental questions on adhesion GPCR in renal physiology and pathology. In my free time, I enjoy reading, workouts, and hiking." Jianxiang Xue on the web Zaidman Physiology Lab Anti-Tumorigenic Role of Brain Angiogenesis Inhibitor 3 (BAI3) in WNT-Activated Medulloblastomas Virginea de Araujo Farias Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Workshop Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Van Meir, Erwin G. University of Alabama at Birmingham" About Virginea de Araujo Farias "Brain Angiogenesis Inhibitor (BAI) proteins are members of group VII of the adhesion G protein-coupled receptor (aGPCR) family. BAI1-3 are highly expressed in the brain, where they participate in synaptogenesis and synapse maintenance. In cancers, BAI1-3 expression can be lost through epigenetic silencing, copy number loss or truncating mutations. In medulloblastomas (MB), BAI3 (ADGRB3) expression is specifically reduced in the WNT-activated group (WNT-MB), but not in the other three molecular groups. WNT pathway activation in WNT-MB is driven by mutations of the CTNNB1 gene, activating ß-catenin-dependent signaling; however, no interactions between BAI3 and the WNT signaling pathway have been described so far. MAGI3, a PDZ-containing scaffolding protein is known to downregulate WNT signaling by interacting with ß-catenin in gliomas, but it is unknown whether this involves BAI3. To explore a possible connection between BAI3 and ß-catenin signaling through MAGI3 in WNT-MB, we probed for potential protein-protein interactions using co-IP experiments. We found an interaction between BAI3 and MAGI3 in mouse brain lysates. Therefore, we hypothesize that re-expression of BAI3 in WNT-MB cells will restrain ß-catenin activity through the formation of a BAI3/MAGI3/ß-catenin complex, reducing their tumorigenic properties. To test this hypothesis, we created WNT-like MB cell lines stably expressing tet-on wild-type BAI3 or a BAI3 lacking the C-terminal PDZ-binding motif (PBM). We will present the effects of BAI3 re-expression on WNT-MB cells oncogenic properties and signaling." Virginea de Araujo Farias on the web Google Scholar Conformational And Functional Coupling Between Extracellular and Transmembrane Regions of a Holo-Adhesion GPCR Szymon P. Kordon Abstract "Adhesion G Protein-Coupled Receptors (aGPCRs) are key cell-adhesion molecules involved in numerous physiological functions. aGPCRs have large multi-domain extracellular regions (ECR) that mediate cell adhesion and play roles in transmitting extracellular signals to the inside of the cell. Ligand binding and mechanical force applied on the ECR regulate receptor function. However, how the ECR communicates with the seven-pass transmembrane domain (7TM) remains elusive, because the relative orientation and dynamics of the ECR and 7TM within a holoreceptor is unclear. Here, we describe the cryo-EM reconstruction of an aGPCR, Latrophilin3/ADGRL3, and reveal that the conserved GAIN domain, that directly precedes 7TM, adopts a parallel orientation to the membrane and has constrained movement. Single-molecule FRET experiments unveil three slow-exchanging FRET states of the ECR relative to the 7TM within the holoreceptor. GAIN-targeted antibodies, and cancer-associated mutations at the GAIN-7TM interface, alter holoreceptor conformations, and modulate downstream receptor signaling. Altogether, this data demonstrates conformational and functional coupling between the ECR and 7TM, suggesting an ECR-mediated mechanism for aGPCR activation." Authors & Affiliations "Cechova Kristina (3), Bandekar Sumit J.(1, 2), Leon Katherine (1, 2), Dutka Przemysław (1, 4), Siffer Gracie (3), Kossiakoff Anthony A. (1), Vafabakhsh Reza (3), Araç Demet (1, 2) 1. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; 2. Neuroscience Institute, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, and Center for Mechanical Excitability, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; 3. Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; 4. Current affiliation: Department of Structural Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA" About Szymon P. Kordon "I am a postdoctoral scholar in the Araç Lab at The University of Chicago, studying the structure and function of aGPCRs. Utilizing synthetic antibody fragments, I aim to understand better the structural basis of the aGPCRs activation and signaling and to characterize ECR-mediated signal transduction at the molecular level." Szymon P. Kordon on the web Araç Laboratory at UChicago Deorphanization Of The Adhesion GPCRs GPR110 and GPR116 Tingzhen Shen Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Workshop Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Frank E. Kwarcinski, Gregory G. Tall (University of Michigan, Ann Arbor)" About Tingzhen Shen "A graduate student from Tall Lab, department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor." Tingzhen Shen on the web University of Michigan Self-Cleavage of GPR110 SEA Domain and Its Impact on GAIN Domain Autoproteolysis Bill Huang Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Workshop Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Hee-Yong Kim, Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA" About Bill Huang "Researcher" Bill Huang on the web LinkedIn Tethered Agonist Dependent ADGRL3 Signaling Activity In The G12/13 Pathway Júlia Rosell Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Workshop Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Regmi, Rajesh (1), Perry-Hauser, Nicole A. (2), Javitch, Jonathan A. (2), Mathiasen, Signe (1) (1) Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. (2) Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, USA; Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA" About Júlia Rosell "I am a first-year PhD student with two years of experience in the adhesion GPCR field. I completed my Master’s thesis on ADGRL3, where I conducted research involving mammalian cell cultures and techniques such as BRET assays and gene expression assays. Currently, my research focuses on the intracellular signaling of ADGRL3 from a single-molecule perspective and investigating how the binding of extracellular transsynaptic ligands modulates ADGRL3 activity, aiming to elucidate their interplay." Júlia Rosell on the web LinkedIn Endocytic Cues Determine the Signaling Profile of Adhesion GPCR ADGRL1 / Latrophilin-1 Sheila Ribalta-Mena Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Workshop Attendees Authors & Affiliations " Hernández-Aranda Judith 2, Correoso-Braña Kerlys 1, Vialou Vincent 3, Leduc Richard 4, Olivares-Reyes Jesús Alberto 2, Boucard Antony A1. 1 Department of Cell Biology, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav-IPN), México City, México. 2 Department of Biochemistry, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav-IPN), México City, México. 3 Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine, Paris, France. 4 Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada " About Sheila Ribalta-Mena " Cell Biology PhD student " Sheila Ribalta-Mena on the web CINVESTAV ResearchGate LinkedIn GPR110 modulates anxiety-like behaviors and memory function in mice potentially through neuronal and neuroimmune alterations during neurodevelopment Mariam Melkumyan Abstract "GPR110, an adhesion G protein coupled receptor (GPCR), is widely expressed in developing brains but diminishes in adult stage except in the hippocampus, a region involved in learning and memory. Ligand-induced GPR110 signaling stimulates neurogenesis and synaptogenesis during development, and the absence of the ligand-induced signaling causes object recognition and spatial memory deficits in adulthood and increased neuroinflammatory responses. Nevertheless, the role of GPR110 signaling in behavioral consequences has not been fully explored. This study aimed to understand the effects of GPR110 on mouse behaviors in relation to neurodevelopmental and neuroimmune gene and protein expression. Anxiety and memory function were tested using both male and female mice at 5-6 month of age. GPR110 knockout (KO) mice displayed trends for increased anxiety-like behaviors in the elevated plus maze test and in the open field test. Memory tests, including the novel object test and the radial 8-arm maze showed worsened spatial and reference memory in the GPR110 KO mice compared to wildtype mice. The y-maze showed a significant sex by genotype interactions with GPR110 KO male mice having increased number of correct alterations and errors, while the GPR110 KO females had fewer correct alterations and errors. RNAseq data indicated significantly impaired developmental gene expression for neuronal differentiation, axonogenesis, and synaptogenesis, as well as altered neuroinflammatory marker expression in GPR110 KO mouse brains. Further studies exploring the protein expression and neural activity of these mouse brain will give insight on the mechanism underlying the behavioral consequences associated with the GPR110 receptor. " Authors & Affiliations "Joel Toro, Bill Huang, Hee-Yong Kim Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, NIH" About Mariam Melkumyan "Mariam Melkumyan is a postdoctoral fellow at the Laboratory of Molecular Signaling studying the role of GPR110 in neurotransmission and neuroimmune activity involved in learning and memory, anxiety, and alcohol use. Mariam, originally from Armenia, completed her bachelor's degree in Neuroscience at American University in Washington, DC and her dual-title PhD in Neuroscience and Clinical and Translational Sciences at Penn State College of Medicine in Hershey, PA. Mariam started her postdoctoral training in February 2024 and is hoping to become an academic professor and mentor the next generation of scientists." Mariam Melkumyan on the web LinkedIn Google Scholar < Previous Session Next Session >

Full Agenda Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Download PDF Program HERE < Back to Full Agenda Leave for dinner reception Coming Soon < Previous Session Next Session >

Dr. Alex Serafini shares why pain research must start with real-world behavior and models before drilling into GPCR targets — a top-down rethink for drug discovery. << Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) GPCRs and the Science Behind Pain and Recovery with Dr. Alex Serafini Strategy: From Personal Pain to Scientific Purpose Dr. Alex Serafini’s entry into science wasn’t typical. Born in California, raised in Silicon Valley, and initially eyeing finance, his trajectory took a sharp turn after struggling with unresolved, chronic pain following repeated surgeries for a pilonidal cyst. "I wasn't able to get stronger pain meds because of the opioid epidemic," he recalls. That gap in care sparked a curiosity that became a career. Driven by personal experience and a desire to innovate in pain management, Alex pursued a master's in pain research at Hopkins and later an MD-PhD at Mount Sinai. His early exposure to TRPV1 channels and peripheral pain mechanisms with Dr. Mike Caterina laid the foundation. But the deeper mission? Finding answers for patients society often overlooks. Pain became more than biology — it became a personal strategy. “I started going through what I was going through… and that got me very interested in research.” — Alex Serafini Decision-Making: Saying Yes to the Unorthodox Path Serafini’s journey defied traditional checklists. He joined Mount Sinai through FlexMed — bypassing the MCAT — and was torn between a career in pharma and academia. At one point, he had a job offer at Roivant (a biotech firm known for repurposing shelved compounds), but a late-stage offer into an MD-PhD program — and parental “encouragement” — rerouted his path. His approach to decision-making is pragmatic: follow impact, not orthodoxy. The decision to stay on as a postdoc in the same lab as his PhD — with Dr. Venetia Zachariou — wasn't the typical next step, but it allowed him to wrap up high-impact work and learn about PI-level grant writing, strategy, and lab management. In his words: “She let me run projects like a junior PI.” “I didn’t need to chase new techniques — I needed to finish the science that mattered.” — Alex Serafini Blind Spots: The Underestimated Role of RGS Proteins in Pain Although not a self-proclaimed GPCR specialist, Serafini found himself repeatedly drawn to them, or more precisely, to RGS (Regulators of G protein Signaling) proteins. The lab’s work with RGS4 led to unexpected results: knockout mice spontaneously recovered from chronic pain after three weeks, an effect rarely observed. He points out that GPCRs—especially orphan and CNS-associated ones—are often downplayed in pain research, with most focus on ionotropic targets like NAV1.8. But Serafini believes that’s a blind spot. “We’re using outdated drugs. There are more elegant GPCR targets waiting to be explored.” The lab’s unconventional in vivo-first strategies, combined with RNA-seq and behavioral analysis, revealed nuanced roles of RGS4, RGS9, and RGSZ — not just as modulators but as potential therapeutic linchpins. “Half the time, in pain, what works in vivo doesn’t translate to clinic. We need new thinking.” — Alex Serafini Failure & Frustration: From Pipettes to Pandemic Disruption The road hasn’t been smooth. From struggling to grip mice in early animal studies to thesis delays during COVID-19, Serafini's journey is marked by grit. But it’s in these friction points that new insights emerged. The pandemic disruption, for instance, led him to BSL-3 labs to study persistent pain after SARS-CoV-2 infection, revealing novel immune-neuron signaling in DRGs. He also opens up about the emotional and logistical toll of MD-PhD training. It’s an eight-year-plus haul with built-in uncertainty. However, with mentors who believed in him, especially those who shared administrative, grant-writing, and leadership skills early on, he found direction and resilience. “She [Vanna] gave me a crash course in what it’s like to be a junior PI. That changed everything.” — Alex Serafini Pivoting: Redefining the Pain Research Playbook Looking ahead, Serafini’s vision is bold: build a lab that develops translational models of pain rooted in patient realities. He’s fascinated by transgenerational epigenetics — how parental pain, diet, or drug exposure can leave molecular fingerprints in offspring. He's equally focused on sex differences in pain processing and the failure of "one-size-fits-all" models in pharmacology. His advice? Learn broadly. Stay close to patients. Collaborate relentlessly. And above all, don’t be afraid to start from the phenotype and work backwards to the mechanism. That top-down approach, though less common, could help pain research finally catch up with the complexity of real-world biology. “Start from the end — from the clinic — and then build backwards.” — Alex Serafini Key Takeaway Innovation in pain research won’t come from doing the same things better — it’ll come from flipping the script. Whether it’s challenging legacy targets, redefining preclinical models, or exploring the epigenetic inheritance of pain, Dr. Serafini urges the field to stay bold, patient-centered, and GPCR-aware. About Alex Serafini Alex was born and raised in the Bay Area and received his BS/MS Neuroscience from Johns Hopkins. His master's degree was in Dr. Michael Caterina's lab studying the role of PNS chloride transporters in neuropathic pain. Upon matriculating to Mount Sinai's MD/PhD program, he joined Dr. Venetia Zachariou's lab to study the effects of chronic pain and addiction/withdrawal on the mesocorticolimbic system, focusing on transcription factor and RGS protein maladaptations, behavioral RGS protein drug "screening", and the role of SARS-CoV-2 on CNS function and sensory hypersensitivity. He aspires to become a physician-scientist, with a focus on translational in vitro and in vivo model development for studying chronic pain and affective comorbidities. Other academic interests of his include studying pharmaceutical finance & healthcare administration and developing technologies that increase healthcare access. His non-academic interests include traveling, scouting out micro-breweries, and collecting beer cans. Alex Serafini on the web LinkedIn Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Full Agenda Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Download PDF Program HERE < Back to Full Agenda Session IV AGPCRs signaling in the nervous system BAI1/ADGRB1-mediated Regulation of Mitochondrial Morphology in Axons Joseph Duman Bai1 Is A Novel Neuronal Substrate Of The Psychiatric Risk Kinase TNIK Simeon R. Mihaylov Intricacies Of Complex Assembly And Ligand Interaction In The Adhesion GPCR Latrophilin/Cirl Anne Bormann BAI1/ADGRB1-mediated Regulation of Mitochondrial Morphology in Axons Joseph Duman Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Tolias, Kimberley F., Departments of Neuroscience and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030" About Joseph Duman "Joseph Duman is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Baylor College of Medicine, where he studies BAI1's role in the brain and the radiobiology of treatments for brain cancer. He trained at the University of California at Berkeley with John Forte and the University of Washington with Bertil Hille, before joining Kim Tolias' lab at Baylor College of Medicine." Joseph Duman on the web Baylor College of Medicine Kimberley Tolias Lab Bai1 Is A Novel Neuronal Substrate Of The Psychiatric Risk Kinase TNIK Simeon R. Mihaylov Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Flynn, Helen R.2, Sampedro-Castaneda, Marisol1, Claxton, Suzanne1, Skehel, Mark2, Ultanir, Sila K.1 1Kinases and Brain Development Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, UK 2Proteomics Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, UK" About Simeon R. Mihaylov " I am a postdoctoral researcher in the kinases and brain development laboratory led by Dr Sila Ultanir at the Francis Crick Institute in London, England. I undertook my BSc in Biochemistry and Genetics at the University of Sheffield followed up by obtaining a PhD in molecular neuroscience at the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience. I then moved to King's College London, where my interest and passion for kinases in brain health and disease developed. I initially worked on mTOR in the pathogenesis of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and then moved to the Francis Crick Institute working on the psychiatric risk kinase TNIK. I also work on multiple other kinases in our laboratory implicated in various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. My expertise includes biochemical approaches, proteomics and transcriptomics to name a few. I have recently also developed a strong interest in adhesion GPCRs and in particular, Bai1. " Simeon R. Mihaylov on the web Crick LinkedIn X (Twitter) Google Scholar Intricacies Of Complex Assembly And Ligand Interaction In The Adhesion GPCR Latrophilin/Cirl Anne Bormann Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Körner, Marek Benjamin; Dahse, Anne-Kristin; Ljaschenko, Dmitrij; Scholz, Nicole (Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Division of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University)" About Anne Bormann "I am a biochemist by training and studied at Leipzig University from 2015 to 2020. During my Bachelor's in 2018, I sought practical lab experience and found a position as a student assistant in Dr. Nicole Scholz's lab. My main topics were protein biochemistry, Drosophila husbandry, and genetics. I was fortunate that Nicole offered me an opportunity to do my Master's and later on a PhD thesis in her group. Since then, I have broadened my horizons with many more techniques in vivo and in vitro, with a main emphasis on the Adhesion GPCR Latrophilin/Cirl. Currently, I am in the final stages of my PhD, and I am looking forward to new projects and ideas." Anne Bormann on the web Rudolf-Schönheimer-Institut für Biochemie Scholz Lab < Previous Session Next Session >

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Richard Premont About Dr. Richard Premont "Dr. Premont obtained his B.S. in Biology and Chemistry at the California Institute of Technology in 1985, and M.Ph . and Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (Pharmacology) at Mount Sinai School of Medicine (City University of New York) in 1990 and 1992, working with Ravi Iyengar on regulation/desensitization of the liver glucagon receptor and glucagon-stimulated adenylyl cyclase system. In 1992, he won a Helen Hay Whitney Foundation fellowship to support his post-doctoral work with Robert Lefkowitz and Marc Caron at Duke University. His initial project to identify and clone taste receptors was unsuccessful, but led to the identification of GRK5 and continued focus on GRKs (particularly GRKs 4,5,6) and arrestins as GPCR regulators and as mediators of distinct signaling pathways through partners including GIT1. In 1999, obtained an independent faculty position at Duke in Gastroenterology, where he remained until 2018 studying GPCRs and their signaling pathways in the liver and in liver disease. In 2018, he moved to Harrington Discovery Institute and Case Western Reserve University, where he studies GPCR regulation by S-nitrosylation. My research focus is on understanding how distinct cellular signaling pathways interact and are coordinated to produce integrated physiological responses, and how dysregulation of this coordination results in pathophysiology. For this, we have worked in three main areas: the regulation of G protein-coupled receptor signaling particularly by the G protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRK) – beta-arrestin system, the coordination of heterotrimeric G protein, small GTP-binding protein and protein kinase pathways by GIT/PIX scaffolding complexes during cellular signaling, and characterizing the role of protein S-nitrosylation as a signaling post-translational modification in mediating and regulating cellular signaling pathways, particularly in conjunction with better characterized signaling systems. In our work, we utilize methods including structural biology and proteomics, molecular biology and biochemical enzymology, primary and model cell culture, and transgenic, knockout, knock-in and conditional models of mouse physiology and behavior." Dr. Richard Premont on the web Google Scholar LinkedIn Dr. GPCR Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Full Agenda Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Download PDF Program HERE < Back to Full Agenda Coffee Break with pastries announcement of the aGEM award Complimentary < Previous Session Next Session >

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Lauren Celano About this episode In this special Dr. GPCR podcast episode, we sat down to chat with Lauren Celano to talk about career options for Ph.D.’s. Working in a lab allows scientists to gain amazing hard and soft skills, which opens the doors to several great careers that many have not even considered, yet. Lauren has a science background and is passionate about helping talented scientists find their dream position. She is also a speaker, connector, recruiter, and coach. Lauren Celano on the web LinkedIn Propel Careers Email: Lauren@propelcareers.com Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Translating computational approaches to GPCR biologists with Dr. Riccardo Capelli About Dr. Riccardo Capelli Dr. Riccardo Capelli is an assistant professor in Applied Physics at the Department of Biosciences, University of Milan. He earned his PhD in Physics at the same university, focusing on in silico structural vaccinology and advancing free energy calculation techniques. He then held a postdoctoral position at Forschungszentrum Jülich (Germany), where he worked on calculating ligand binding kinetics using classical molecular dynamics. This was followed by a postdoctoral role at the Polytechnic University of Turin (Italy), where he developed coarse-grained models for self-assembling systems. Now in a tenure-track position, his research spans the development of computational methods such as structure-based models and enhanced sampling techniques, as well as their application to biomolecular systems, mainly on GPCRs activation and dynamics. Dr. Ricardo Capelli on the web Google Scholar ResearchGate Bysky App : @ riccardocapelli.bsky.social Twitter X : @ ric_capelli Computational Structural Biology Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Annette Gilchrist About this episode Originally, Annette wanted to be a medical doctor but as luck has it, she didn’t get into medical school when she first applied. Instead, she discovered research and started her Ph.D. the day she should have started medical school. Dr. Gilchrist completed her Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences / Immunology at the University of Connecticut and went on to become a postdoctoral fellow at UIC (University of Illinois at Chicago). Annette worked in industry, academia and her entrepreneurial side led her to three companies, Cue Biotech , Caden Biosciences , and MyGenomeRx in addition to being a consultant for over a decade. Dr. Gilchrist is also an associate professor at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Join me and learn more about Annette’s career, our common love for chemokines, and how you can use your training as a scientist in so many different ways. Dr. Annette Gilchrist on the web LinkedIn Midwestern University Google Scholar Pubmed Twitter Research Gate Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Tobi Langenhan About Dr. Tobi Langenhan "I studied medicine at the University of Würzburg, where I obtained my license to practice and my Dr. med. degree in neuroanatomy. Then I moved to the University of Oxford on a 4-year Wellcome Trust Scholarship in Neuroscience, through which I gained an M.Sc. from Somerville College and a D.Phil. from Magdalen College Oxford, both in Neuroscience. For my doctoral studies, I joined the lab of Dr Andreas Russ at the Department of Biochemistry and first came across GPCRs, particularly the receptor family I have been investigating ever since: adhesion GPCRs. After returning to Germany I set up my own lab at the Institute of Physiology at Würzburg, where I later became Heisenberg Professor for 'Physiology and pathophysiology of mechanoceptive signalling pathways'. Shortly after was recruited to the Medical Faculty of Leipzig University, where I now head the Department of General Biochemistry at the Rudolf Schönheimer Institute. I work with invertebrate animal models (mainly D. melanogaster) and in vitro techniques to pick apart the physiological and pharmacological principles that underlie the workings of adhesion GPCRs in health and disease. This entails the deciphering of cellular and organ functions, which require individual adhesion GPCRs, and extends to the development of novel screening approaches to identify pharmacological modulators of human adhesion GPCRs." Dr. Tobi Langenhan on the web Langenhan Lab ORCID LinkedIn University of Leipzig Dr. GPCR Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Discover CRO Bank Packages with Dr. GPCR Ecosystem. List your services and your brand on the world's first GPCR CRO Bank. Reach a targeted scientific audience and showcase your organization in the GPCR community. Be Discoverable When GPCR Teams Are Actively Evaluating Services and Tools Reach 1400+ GPCR researchers and company representatives. The GPCR CRO Bank is designed to help service providers and tool companies get found, evaluated, and contacted — not just recognized. The CRO Bank allows companies to present their services and platforms in a structured format so GPCR discovery teams can quickly identify relevant capabilities when evaluating tools, technologies, or CRO partners. Partner with us Today! Who the GPCR CRO Bank is For The GPCR CRO Bank is a strong fit for companies that want to: Make their services or products easily discoverable within the GPCR ecosystem Support inbound inquiries from teams actively evaluating CROs, platforms, or tools Present clear, structured product and service offerings in one trusted location Use ecosystem visibility to support commercial conversations and decision-making If your primary goal is brand credibility and long-term recognition across high-traffic ecosystem pages, a Strategic Media Partnership may be a better fit. Connect With The GPCR Community You've built incredible CRO services. But are the right scientists discovering them? Dr. GPCR is the world's largest nonprofit community focused on GPCRs. We are building the world's first CRO Service-focused GPCR bank. As a CRO partner, you'll gain trusted access to an engaged audience of biotech teams and drug discovery innovators—without having to fight for attention. Ready to share your CRO company with the GPCR world? Why Partner with Dr. GPCR? As a CRO partner, you'll be featured across our nonprofit platform, trusted by thousands of GPCR scientists and biotech professionals. 🎯 Reach Qualified Researchers Connect with scientists who are actively looking for tools like yours, without the noise of general platforms. 🤝 Build Trust Develop content that speaks their language and establishes your credibility in the GPCR research community. 🌐 Join a Curated Ecosystem Become part of a collaborative, curated ecosystem—not just another name on a crowded vendor list. We're focused on quality over quantity - and on partnerships that deliver long-term value to the field. What You Get as a CRO Partner? These channels are used to support discovery and evaluation — helping teams understand what you offer and how to engage with you. 📬 Newsletter Visibility ✓ Featured in our highly read weekly newsletter ✓ Tell your story with context, clarity, and purpose ✓ Bonus: Mentioned in podcast intros/outros 📄 Custom Company Page ✓ Permanent company profile on the Dr. GPCR Ecosystem ✓ Logo, branding, and description of your mission ✓ Contact links and key highlights 📝 Blog Contributions ✓ Contribute to blog posts on the Dr. GPCR platform as a valued partner ✓ Share insights on product launches, scientific discoveries, or customer stories ✓ Reach a targeted scientific audience with your contributions. 🎙️ Featured Podcast Episode ✓ Be the guest on a dedicated episode of the Dr. GPCR Podcast ✓ Feature up to 3 team members to share your story ✓ Distributed across podcast platforms and social media 📣 Social Media Promotion ✓ Engaging posts about your organization ✓ Targeted to GPCR researchers and biotech professionals ✓ Shared on LinkedIn and X (Twitter) 👩🔬 Premium Licenses ✓ 10 Scientists Premium Accounts ✓ 3 Non-Scientists Premium Accounts 🎤 Co-Branded Events & Training ✓ Collaborate on webinars and virtual training sessions to showcase your expertise ✓ Host educational events that focus on GPCR research ✓ Engage directly with the GPCR research community through these initiatives 🧰 Product or Service Pages ✓ Individual pages for each product or service ✓ Educate researchers and showcase technical value ✓ Provide downloadable resources or use cases Book Be part of the CRO Bank and showcase your GPCR Services Book a 30-minute Strategy Call with Yamina

Alessandro Nicoli shares how he models olfactory GPCRs with AlphaFold, mentors students, and builds science from scratch in a new lab. A fresh look at computational GPCR research. << Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Smells Like GPCR Spirit: Cracking Olfactory Codes with Alessandro Nicoli The Accidental Path to Science Alessandro Nicoli didn’t grow up knowing he’d be a scientist. Like many, his path to GPCR research wasn’t linear—it evolved through academic exploration and mentorship. “I think I don’t have a linear trajectory… the beauty of seeing molecule design and reactions—thinking you can create molecules—was really exciting.” – Alessandro Nicoli He studied pharmaceutical chemistry in Padua, where his fascination with molecular design first took shape. But it wasn’t until meeting an inspiring professor, Prof. Moro, that he truly saw how molecules could go beyond the bench and interact with biology in powerful ways. The Moment Chemistry Met Biology Nicoli’s turning point came when he realized that molecules weren’t static—they could act , bind , and modulate biological targets. “It was not just a molecule—it was a partner that goes to interact with something else… a protein, DNA, RNA. That opened up a new world.” – Alessandro Nicoli That early spark led him to discover the role of medicinal chemistry and, eventually, molecular modeling. For Nicoli, chemistry became more than reactions—it became a bridge to biological insight. Falling for Computational Chemistry The "second academic love" arrived during his master’s thesis, where Nicoli dove into computational chemistry. “I got to know computational chemistry through a project on BCL2 proteins and drug discovery… I was in love with the topic.” – Alessandro Nicoli Working on docking and NMR studies for cancer-related proteins, he discovered the power of simulation in revealing molecular interactions. That experience convinced him to pursue a PhD and deepen his computational skills—eventually leading him to GPCRs. Finding the Right Mentor and Lab A birthday email changed everything. Professor Moro forwarded a PhD opening from Prof. Antonella Di Pizio’s lab in Munich. It felt serendipitous—and it was. “We had a super match… and after a month, I was already in Germany. I was her first PhD student.” – Alessandro Nicoli Starting from scratch in a young lab wasn’t easy, but it created a unique bond between PI and student. Nicoli thrived in this setting—helping shape the lab and its direction, particularly in computational studies of olfactory GPCRs . GPCRs, Receptors of Infinite Variety When asked about his favorite GPCR, Nicoli refused to pick. “Let’s embrace the challenge to study all of them… they’re unique in how they bind ligands, how selective they are.” – Alessandro Nicoli He emphasized that olfactory receptors , while underexplored, present an incredible challenge. With hundreds of subtypes and very few known ligands, the structure–function relationships remain largely mysterious—and incredibly exciting for a computational chemist. AlphaFold: A Turning Point in GPCR Research When Nicoli began his PhD, AlphaFold hadn’t yet revolutionized the field. But once released, it changed everything. “AlphaFold gave us a face to those proteins… now we have 400 models to start with.” – Alessandro Nicoli He explained how AlphaFold’s predictions, surprisingly close to experimental structures, provided a powerful starting point for docking, dynamics, and ligand design—especially for receptors previously “invisible” to structural biology. Modeling the Invisible: Olfactory Receptors Nicoli’s work centers on predicting ligand binding and receptor behavior for olfactory GPCRs. “The main challenge was: how do we get a face for these proteins when we don’t have ligands?” – Alessandro Nicoli He shared a detailed case study of working on a specific odorant receptor (R5VK1), where they leveraged known active/inactive ligands to validate models through iterative refinement , molecular docking , and mutagenesis-guided optimization . The goal? Build predictive models to discover new ligands . Why Molecular Dynamics Matters For Nicoli, molecular dynamics is more than simulation—it’s how we watch biology move . “You simulate over time… see how receptors move in physiological conditions, with water, membranes, ligands.” – Alessandro Nicoli He emphasized that MD allows researchers to observe allosteric changes , mutation effects , and even ligand entry/exit paths , offering dynamic insights that static structures cannot. It’s a critical complement to experimental work. From Researcher to Mentor: Growing Together Outside his research, Nicoli mentors students, manages interns, and even lectures. Balancing this with a PhD isn't easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. “You have people that rely on you… but you grow together, and that’s the most powerful thing.” – Alessandro Nicoli He reflected on learning to delegate—how hard it was initially to hand over tasks—but how vital it is for team science. He now sees mentoring as a way to shape the next generation while evolving himself as a scientist. Advice, Tools, and the Future of GPCR Research Nicoli offered advice to wet-lab scientists curious about computational work: Start with passion. Learn Python. Explore online resources like “Talktorials.” “We’re living in a golden era for computational chemistry… the tools are out there. You just need the motivation to explore.” – Alessandro Nicoli As for what’s next? More structures, better tools, and deeper insights into the elegant, complex world of GPCRs. He sees a future where wet and dry labs converge , and where computational methods are fully integrated into GPCR drug discovery pipelines. Key Takeaway Alessandro Nicoli’s journey is a compelling example of how computational chemistry can unlock new frontiers in GPCR research , especially in complex areas like olfactory receptors. By bridging structural prediction, molecular dynamics, and ligand discovery, his work not only deciphers biological mysteries but also inspires a new generation of scientists to think computationally. About Alessandro Nicoli Alessandro Nicoli is currently a PhD student in the Molecular Modeling group led by Prof. Dr. Antonella Di Pizio at the Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich (Germany). He obtained an MSc degree in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology from the University of Padua (Italy). His training and passion for computational chemistry started in 2019 during his time at the Molecular Modeling Section (MMS) under the supervision of Prof. Stefano Moro, where he worked on integrated Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and computational modeling strategies to target the antiapoptotic BCL-2 protein family, key regulators of cell survival, using small molecules. He then moved to Germany in 2019 to pursue his PhD. His research focuses on a group of 400 transmembrane proteins known as olfactory receptors, which mediate the sense of smell. Beyond the olfactory epithelium, these receptors are expressed in various tissues, where they play important but not yet fully understood roles in various physiological and pathological processes. Despite their relevance, they remain understudied due to the limited knowledge of their ligands and the lack of experimental structures. Alessandro PhD work aims to fill these gaps by leveraging computational structure-based tools and develop specific protocols to accelerate OR ligand discovery and improve our understanding of olfactory function at the molecular level. Alessandro Nicoli on the web Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich Technical University of Munich Google Scholar Pubmed ORCID ResearchGate X Bluesky Github Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Can models predict drug outcomes? Jens Carlsson shares how GPCR modeling is moving from explanation to real prediction in drug discovery. << Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Model. Predict. Discover. with Dr. Jens Carlsson What if models didn’t just explain the past — but could truly predict what comes next? In this episode, Dr. Jens Carlsson reveals how computational modeling is evolving from explanation to real prediction—and how that shift accelerates real-world discovery. Dr. Jens Carlsson, Professor of Computational Biochemistry at Uppsala University, joins Dr. Yamina Berchiche to share his unconventional journey from aspiring engineer to GPCR modeler. With a deep focus on structure-based drug design, Jens discusses how his lab bridges simulation and experiment—and why understanding the limits of prediction is just as critical as the predictions themselves. From virtual screening of billions of molecules to leveraging AlphaFold for structure prediction, Jens shares the cutting-edge tools his lab uses—and the collaborative mindset required to turn models into testable hypotheses. Along the way, he reflects on key career moments, the role of mentorship, and how curiosity continues to drive his work across both academic and industry settings. Why This Matters Computational models are moving beyond interpretation into real-world prediction of ligand-receptor interactions. Bridging computation, chemistry, and pharmacology is key to speeding up drug discovery. AI and machine learning are opening new doors—but only if scientists know their tools’ limits. What You’ll Learn Why Jens Carlsson believes modeling should predict , not just explain How his team uses structure-based modeling to identify novel GPCR ligands The value of failure—and how it shaped his path as a scientist Why collaborations between modelers and experimentalists are more vital than ever How AlphaFold is shaking up structural biology—and where it still falls short Advice for junior scientists: what really matters when building a research career Who Should Listen GPCR scientists and pharmacologists Computational chemists and structural biologists Early-career researchers exploring drug discovery Biotech leaders and R&D strategists Anyone interested in predictive modeling, AI in biology, or structure-function relationships About Jens Carlsson Jens Carlsson is a Professor of Computational Biochemistry at Uppsala University, where his research group uses structure-based modeling to investigate GPCRs. His team focuses on understanding how ligands modulate receptor function and how those insights can drive drug discovery. By combining molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and machine learning, Jens works at the intersection of computation and pharmacology, often in close collaboration with experimental labs. Trained initially as a biotechnology engineer, Jens discovered his true calling during an internship where his modeling skills stood out, mainly because his bench skills didn’t. That moment launched a career built around using computational tools to answer big biological questions. His journey took him from Sweden to Scripps Research and UCSF, where he was first introduced to GPCRs and mentored by pioneers like Brian Shoichet and Ken Jacobson. Jens is passionate about prediction over explanation: building models that can guide experiments, not just interpret them. Outside academia, he advises companies through a consulting arm focused on ligand design strategy. With a reputation for collaborative science, Jens is a strong advocate for bringing together chemists, modelers, and biologists to accelerate discovery and train the next generation of GPCR researchers. Jens Carlsson on the web Carlsson Group Uppsala University LinkedIn Hit play now to hear how prediction is reshaping GPCR science, and what that means for the future of drug discovery. Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Full Agenda Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Download PDF Program HERE < Back to Full Agenda Complimentary Reception dinner MENU Four Mushroom Soup Tomato, Panela Cheese, and Spinach tower with Oregano Vinaigrette Cane Sugar and Arbol Chile Lacquered Duck Monte Cristo Chocolate Cake Coffee or Tea Vegetarian option* -Mushroom-stuffed chiles on refried bean sauce- instead of the duck < Previous Session Next Session >

Full Agenda Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Download PDF Program HERE < Back to Full Agenda Mexico City Nocturnal Tour, Food and drinks Coming Soon < Previous Session Next Session >

Chemical biologist Johannes Broichhagen reveals how fluorescent probes transform GPCR imaging, internalization studies, and assay development in live cells and tissues. << Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Chemical Probes for GPCR Imaging and Internalization with Dr. Johannes Broichhagen In this episode of The Dr. GPCR Podcast, chemical biologist Dr. Johannes Broichhagen shares how his lab builds next-generation fluorescent probes to visualize GPCRs with precision. From the early days of ion channel chemistry to pioneering peptide–fluorophore conjugates for the GLP-1 receptor, JB breaks down the strategic decisions that shaped these tools—and why reliable chemical probes are transforming GPCR drug discovery . He explains what chemical design can solve that antibodies can’t, how to validate functional assay systems, and why fluorescence-based assays paired with careful synthetic planning open doors for both high-resolution imaging and high-throughput screening . You will walk away with a deeper understanding of GPCR internalization, probe specificity, and the cross-disciplinary habits that make collaborations actually work. Why this matters How a chemist with zero biology training became a leader in GPCR probe design. Why peptide-based fluorescent ligands succeeded where antibodies repeatedly failed. What actually happened the moment JB and collaborators imaged an entire pancreatic islet in one shot. How parallel synthesis and side-by-side functional assays accelerate probe optimization and reduce false leads. Why targeting the pharmacologically relevant surface-exposed receptor pool changes the way scientists interpret GPCR trafficking. The moment when super-resolution imaging revealed nanoscale receptor domains that conventional tools completely missed. Who should listen If you’ve ever: Navigated a project where the biology refused to match the textbook mechanism. Balanced creativity in tool development with the pressure for reproducible, publication-grade data. Tried to build assays that behave in living cells—not just on paper. Collaborated across chemistry and biology and felt the translation gap firsthand… …this episode will resonate. About Johannes Broichhagen Dr. Johannes Broichhagen is a chemical biologist whose work sits at the intersection of organic synthesis, peptide chemistry, and advanced imaging. Born in 1984, he studied chemistry at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (2004–2010) and completed his doctorate at LMU Munich in 2014 . His postdoctoral training included research at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (2015–2016) and later at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research in Heidelberg, where he served as both postdoc and departmental group leader (2017–2020). These years shaped his interest in ion channels, GPCR pharmacology, and the chemical strategies needed to probe complex biology. Since 2020, JB has led his research group at the Leibniz Research Institute for Molecular Pharmacology (FMP) in Berlin, focusing on developing fluorescent chemical tools to visualize GPCRs and other cell-surface proteins with high specificity. His lab integrates synthetic chemistry, theoretical chemistry, cell biology, and imaging to understand receptor organization and dynamics across cells, tissues, and intact organisms. Curiosity, collaboration, and a love of translating chemical concepts into biological insight drive his scientific mission. Johannes Broichhagen on the Web LinkedIn Google Scholar Lab Website Leibniz Research Institute for Molecular Pharmacology (FMP) Profile Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Kathleen Caron About Kathleen M. Caron Kathleen M. Caron, Ph.D. is the Frederik L. Eldridge Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Cell Biology & Physiology at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill—a large, interdisciplinary basic science department currently ranked 1st in the Nation in NIH funding. Dr. Caron received a BS in Biology and BA in Philosophy at Emory University and a PhD at Duke University while training with Dr. Keith Parker to elucidate the role of steroidogenesis in regulating sexual determination and adrenal and gonadal development using genetic mouse models. She pursued postdoctoral training with Nobel Laureate Dr. Oliver Smithies at UNC-CH, where she was the first to discover the essential role of adrenomedullin peptide for embryonic survival. With a special emphasis on G protein coupled receptors and receptor activity modifying proteins in vascular biology, the Caron laboratory has gained valuable insights into the genetic basis and pathophysiology of lymphatic vascular disease, preeclampsia and sex-dependent cardiovascular disease. Dr. Caron has received numerous awards including a Burroughs Wellcome Fund Career Award in the Biomedical Sciences, an Established Investigator Award and an Innovator Award from the American Heart Association, a Jefferson Pilot Award in Biomedical Sciences and a UNC-CH Mentoring Award. She currently serves as Associate Editor of Physiological Reviews; the #1 ranked journal in Physiology (IF 46.5). Dr. Caron is also past Associate Editor at JCI and served as the inaugural Associate Editor at ACS-Pharmacology and Translational Science. Dr. Caron currently holds multiple scientific advisory roles in academia, industry and the National Institutes of Health. Kathleen M. Caron on the web Lab Website Twitter Pubmed Google Scholar Orcid Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Richard Premont About Dr. Richard Premont "Dr. Premont obtained his B.S. in Biology and Chemistry at the California Institute of Technology in 1985, and M.Ph . and Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (Pharmacology) at Mount Sinai School of Medicine (City University of New York) in 1990 and 1992, working with Ravi Iyengar on regulation/desensitization of the liver glucagon receptor and glucagon-stimulated adenylyl cyclase system. In 1992, he won a Helen Hay Whitney Foundation fellowship to support his post-doctoral work with Robert Lefkowitz and Marc Caron at Duke University. His initial project to identify and clone taste receptors was unsuccessful, but led to the identification of GRK5 and continued focus on GRKs (particularly GRKs 4,5,6) and arrestins as GPCR regulators and as mediators of distinct signaling pathways through partners including GIT1. In 1999, obtained an independent faculty position at Duke in Gastroenterology, where he remained until 2018 studying GPCRs and their signaling pathways in the liver and in liver disease. In 2018, he moved to Harrington Discovery Institute and Case Western Reserve University, where he studies GPCR regulation by S-nitrosylation. My research focus is on understanding how distinct cellular signaling pathways interact and are coordinated to produce integrated physiological responses, and how dysregulation of this coordination results in pathophysiology. For this, we have worked in three main areas: the regulation of G protein-coupled receptor signaling particularly by the G protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRK) – beta-arrestin system, the coordination of heterotrimeric G protein, small GTP-binding protein and protein kinase pathways by GIT/PIX scaffolding complexes during cellular signaling, and characterizing the role of protein S-nitrosylation as a signaling post-translational modification in mediating and regulating cellular signaling pathways, particularly in conjunction with better characterized signaling systems. In our work, we utilize methods including structural biology and proteomics, molecular biology and biochemical enzymology, primary and model cell culture, and transgenic, knockout, knock-in and conditional models of mouse physiology and behavior." Dr. Richard Premont on the web Google Scholar LinkedIn Dr. GPCR Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Robert J. Lefkowitz About this episode It was December 14th, 2020, 1:50 pm, when I turned on my laptop and signed into Zoom for my chat with Bob. Bob, who, you might ask? Well, it’s the one and only Robert J. Lefkowitz, M.D., 2012 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, which he shared with Dr. Brian Kobilka . Bob doesn’t really need an introduction since his reputation precedes him. Before we pressed record, I asked if I could call him Bob, and he answered that only his mom used to call him Robert, especially when she was upset with him. I then pressed record, and we chatted for almost 2h about Bob’s career, discoveries, difficulties (yes, he’s had some too), Nobel week, and his memoir that he just published in collaboration with Dr. Randy Hall. Bob is James B. Duke Professor of Medicine and Professor of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Pathology at the Duke University Medical Center. He began his career in the late 1960s and has been an Investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute since 1976. His legacy lies in the numerous discoveries he and his team made in the GPCR field and in all those who trained in his laboratory and went on to pursue stellar scientific careers. I very much enjoyed chatting with Bob, and I hope you’ll enjoy learning more about him as well. Dr. Robert J. Lefkowitz on the web A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Stockholm: The Adrenaline-Fueled Adventures of an Accidental Scientist Duke University Wikipedia Nobel Prize HHMI Lefkowitz Lab Google Scholar Pubmed Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Patrick Sexton About Dr. Patrick Sexton Patrick Sexton is a Professor of Pharmacology, National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia Senior Principal Research Fellow, and Director of the Australian Research Council Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins ( www.ccemmp.org ). He is a leader in the study of GPCRs, biased agonism, and also on allosteric interactions between GPCRs and other proteins and small molecule ligands. More recently, his team has been at the forefront of the application of cryo-EM to elucidate of the structure and dynamics of GPCRs. Prof. Sexton has published over 320 peer-reviewed journal articles and has been cited >26,000 times (Google Scholar). He is a 2021 Clarivate Analytics Highly Cited Researcher in two disciplines: Pharmacology & Toxicology and Biology & Biochemistry, a corresponding member of the International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology Committee on Receptor Nomenclature and Drug Classification, and a member of the Faculty of 1000 (Molecular Pharmacology division) and an elected Fellow of the British Pharmacological Society (BPS). Prof. Sexton’s awards include the Australasian Society for Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists (ASCEPT) Lecturer award, Endocrine Society of Australia Senior Plenary award, Rand Medal (ASCEPT), Paxinos-Watson Award (Australian Neuroscience Society), Vane Medal (BPS), Gordon Hammes Lectureship Award (American Chemical Society) and the GSK Research Excellence award. Prof. Sexton is also a co-founder of the San Francisco-based biotechnology company Septerna Inc . Dr. Patrick Sexton on the web CCeMMP Monash University Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Upcoming Live Expert Sessions ➚ 🔒Explore the Full Masterclass ➚ Unlock the Full Dr. GPCR Learning Ecosystem ✔ Full Masterclass library ✔ Terry's Pharmacology Corner ✔ Advanced GPCR courses ✔ Scientific discussions → Become Premium Recent Podcast Articles Asking Better Questions in Science: A Practical Guide for Emerging Researchers When the Islet Lit Up: Advancing GPCR Imaging in Native Tissue How Collaboration Sparked a GPCR Imaging Breakthrough in Chemical Biology Enjoying the Dr. GPCR Podcast? Leave a Review. Leave a quick review to help more scientists find the show—and help us keep improving every episode. It takes <60 seconds and makes a big difference. ★ Review on Apple Podcasts ★ Rate on Spotify ✉️ Send feedback to the team Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

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