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<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Lauren M. Slosky About Dr. Lauren M. Slosky Lauren Slosky is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and a member of the Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, a multidisciplinary initiative within the University of Minnesota’s Medical School to advance research and treatment in the field of drug addiction. Dr. Slosky’s research is focused on understanding how neuropeptide G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate motivated behavior and how these receptors can be targeted for therapeutic benefit. Dr. Slosky was awarded a B.S. with honors in Molecular and Cellular Biology and Psychology from The University of Arizona in 2011. She received a Ph.D. in Medical Pharmacology from The University of Arizona in 2015 and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the laboratory of Dr. Marc G. Caron at Duke University. Dr. Slosky opened her laboratory at the University of Minnesota Medical School in 2021. While a postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Slosky characterized a new class of β-arrestin biased allosteric modulators (BAMs) for the neurotensin receptor 1. These ligands stimulate receptor β-arrestin recruitment without activating canonical G protein signaling. Critically, these ligands reduce addiction-associated behaviors in animal models without the side effects characteristic of balanced receptor activation. Because BAMs engage less well-conserved allosteric sites and exert pathway-specific effects on receptor signaling, they are exciting tools for linking distinct signaling pathways with their physiological effects and may serve as the basis for more selective therapeutics. This work was made possible by the optimization of longitudinal intravenous self-administration paradigms for genetically modified mice. Integrating GPCR biology, behavioral pharmacology, and systems neuroscience approaches, the Slosky Lab is now working to understand how the principles of receptor allosterism and functional selectivity can be leveraged in the development of safe and effective treatments for stimulant and opioid use disorders. Dr. Slosky’s work has been recognized through several travel and research awards, including the William James Psychology Award, the Hank Yamamura Endowed Fellowship in Pharmacology, an NIH F32 Postdoctoral Fellowship, and an NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award. In addition to research, Dr. Slosky is passionate about training the next generation of scientists and increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in science. An advocate for trainees at all levels, she served as Service Chairperson and Interim President of the Duke University Postdoctoral Association. She is currently a faculty trainer for the University of Minnesota's MS and Ph.D. programs in Pharmacology, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, and Life Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Program and is working to build relationships with key stakeholders through institutional and community service. Dr. Lauren M. Slosky on the web Twitter University of Minnesota Department Page LinkedIn Google Scholar PubMed 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. Lukas Grätz About Dr. Lukas Grätz "After a BSc in biology and a MSc in bioinformatics, I have been working in David Gloriam's group as a bioinformatician. My initial focus was on creating an automated chimeric homology modeling pipeline for GPCRs and since have branched out to multiple areas of GPCR research such as sequence alignments, generic numbering systems, structure data, G protein and arrestin coupling and more. As a developer, and more recently the lead developer of GPCRdb my day-to-day work centers around the maintenance and resource/tool development of GPCRdb and its sister databases. I am also affiliated with György Keserű's group at the RCNS in Hungary. I lived in Denmark, Poland, now I live in Hungary. I am married, I have two daughters. In my free time I like to play the guitar, sing and play board games. " Dr. Lukas Grätz on the web Karolinska Institutet ResearchGate PubMed 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. Nariman Balenga About Dr. Nariman Balenga "I received my Master’s degree from the University of Tehran, Iran, in 2005 by studying the suitability of nanoparticles as porters of DNA vaccination against allergens in mice. Then I pursued my education in the lab of Dr. Maria Waldhoer at the Medical University of Graz, Austria, and received my Ph.D. in Molecular Medicine in 2010 after studying the orphan atypical cannabinoid receptor, GPR55 and its crosstalk with CB1R and CB2R in endothelial cells and neutrophils. I followed my interest in allergy and GPCRs by joining the lab of Dr. Kirk Druey at NIAID/NIH, where I characterized the role of RGS4 and RGS5 in airway hyperresponsiveness and lung fibrosis in acute and chronic mouse models of allergic asthma. I was fascinated by the multitude of processes that are regulated/dysregulated by GPCRs and RGS proteins in the lungs of patients with asthma. At the height of curiosity, a seemingly naïve idea at the dinner table led to a side project by which I characterized the impact of a fungal allergenic source on the function of airway smooth muscle cells. A fungal serine protease allergen with GPCR-modulating features was discovered as a new biomarker and target in patients with severe asthma. In 2015 I joined the University of Maryland School of Medicine as an Assistant Professor. I studied the function of RGS5, calcium-sensing receptor, and an orphan adhesion GPCR, GPR64/ADGRG2 in parathyroid glands of patients with hyperparathyroidism and their impact on body calcium homeostasis and bone resorption in relevant transgenic mice. In 2021, I joined the Ferring Research Institute of Ferring Pharmaceuticals in San Diego as a scientist." Dr. Nariman Balenga on the web Researchgate Linkedin.com 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 >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) The Scientist's Compass: From Academia to Entrepreneurship with Dr. Dmitry Veprintsev In this episode, Yamina sits down with Prof. Dmitry Veprintsev , a molecular pharmacologist at the University of Nottingham, to discuss his scientific journey, GPCR research, and the intersection of academia and entrepreneurship. Key Takeaways: From Protein Folding to GPCRs – How Dmitry transitioned from biophysics and protein folding to cannabinoid receptor research, guided by key mentors like Michel Bouvier. Why GPCRs? – The challenge and excitement of working with notoriously difficult-to-study membrane proteins. The Power of Asking the Right Question – Dmitry emphasizes that mastering a technique isn’t enough—true scientific breakthroughs come from formulating the right biological questions. Building Z7 Biotech – The unexpected journey into biotech entrepreneurship, providing GPCR profiling services to pharma and biotech companies. Interdisciplinary Research & Future Directions – Exploring combinatorial drug actions, receptor interactions, and novel profiling approaches. Networking & Career Growth – Overcoming introversion, the importance of talking to people, and how networking (or just genuine curiosity) opens doors in science. 💡 Big Takeaway? Whether in academia or industry, success comes from curiosity, persistence, and knowing your values. Tune in to hear how Dmitry navigated his career, the challenges of studying GPCRs, and why talking to others will always lead to answers! Summary made with AI About Dmitry Veprintsev Dmitry is Professor of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology at the Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Nottingham, where he provides leadership in structural and biophysical pharmacology of G protein coupled receptors. He is author of over 100 papers, including several in Nature, Science and Cell. Dmitry studied biophysics at the Moscow State University, followed by a PhD (1998) in protein folding at the Russian Academy of Sciences and at the Ohio State University, USA. He joined the MRC Centre for Protein Engineering and later at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK as a postdoctoral fellow and later as a staff scientist, focusing on the biophysical studies of the tumour suppressor p53. In 2010 he became a group leader at the Paul Scherrer Institute and ETH Zürich in Switzerland, changing his attention to structural pharmacology of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). In 2017 Dmitry became a full professor at the Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, COMPARE, a joined venture between the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham. In 2021 he co-founded Z7 Biotech, developing and providing innovative GPCR drug screening and precision pharmacology services. Dmitry Veprintsev on the web LinkedIn Veprintsev Lab Z7 Biotech University of Nottingham 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. Simone Prömel & Dr. Ines Liebscher About Dr. Simone Prömel Simone Prömel is currently a professor of cell biology at the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany. Being a biochemist by training, she completed her Ph.D. at the Institute of Biochemistry at the University of Oxford, UK. During this time, she discovered her love for Adhesion GPCRs and started delineating the molecular mechanisms of the Adhesion GPCR Latrophilin-1. These extraordinary receptors, about which there was not much known other than that they are huge and somehow play important roles in health and disease, fascinated her so much that she continued working on them when she started her own lab at Leipzig University. There she focused on the different modes of action of Adhesion GPCRs and found that they do not only mediate classical G protein signals into cells but can also communicate solely via their N termini. Today, she and her team are working on the questions of how Adhesion GPCRs integrate the different signals on a molecular level and how these are translated into physiological functions in various model organisms. Together with Ines Liebscher, Simone is leading an EU-funded COST Network on Adhesion GPCRs: CA18240 Adher´n Rise. Dr. Simone Prömel on the web Prömel Lab Pubmed Researchgate Twitter Dr. GPCR Ecosystem About Dr. Ines Liebscher Dr. Liebscher is a Professor at the Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry at the Medical Faculty of the Leipzig University. During her medical studies in Leipzig, she had her first encounter with an orphan GPCR as the subject of her MD thesis. Being faced with the vast unknown biochemical and pharmacological territory that would be helpful to study orphan receptors she enrolled in the MD/Ph.D. program of Leipzig University. Her postdoctoral work leads her to investigate a whole family of orphan receptors: adhesion GPCRs. With the little knowledge on these receptors available, there were multiple questions to tackle. Starting with proving and characterizing G-protein coupling, Ines spends several years studying the activation mechanism of adhesion GPCRs. In collaboration with great fellow adhesion GPCR scientists around the globe she established a tethered agonist -extracellular matrix- mechano-activation- activation scenario that forms the basis for her current projects that focus on the structural and physiological implications of these findings. Together with Simone Prömel, Ines is leading a COST Network on adhesion GPCRs: CA18240 Adher'nRise. Dr. Ines Liebscher on the web Website LinkedIn Researchgate 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. Khaled Abdelrahman About Dr. Khaled Abdelrahman Dr. Khaled Abdelrahman graduated in 2006 with a BSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Alexandria University (Egypt) followed by MSc in Pharmacology in the same university that was conferred in 2009. He joined the laboratory of Dr. William Cole at the University of Calgary in 2010 for his Ph.D. where he studied the molecular basis underlying altered cerebrovascular function and blood flow in type 2 diabetes. In 2015, He joined Dr. Stephen Ferguson’s laboratory in the Departments of Cellular & Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience at the University of Ottawa as a Postdoctoral Fellow to explore novel G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) candidates that can be targeted pharmacologically to slow neurodegeneration. He has been also studying what aspects of GPCR signaling are regulated in a sex-selective manner and how this can influence drug discovery in the area of neurodegenerative diseases. He is also a Registered Pharmacist in Canada and held two of the most prestigious Clinician Postdoctoral Fellowships offered by Alberta Innovates and Canadian Institutes of Health Research. He received the Canadian Society of Pharmacology and Therapeutics Postdoctoral and Publication awards along with many Young Scientist Awards from the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. Dr. Khaled Abdelrahman on the web Twitter 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 >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) A Brief History of allosteric modulation with Dr. Arthur Christopoulos About Dr. Arthur Christopoulos " Arthur Christopoulos is the Professor of Analytical Pharmacology and the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Australia. His research focuses on novel paradigms of drug action at GPCRs, particularly allosteric modulation and biased agonism, and incorporates computational and mathematical modelling, structural and chemical biology, molecular and cellular pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and preclinical models of behaviour and disease. His work has been applied to studies encompassing neurological and psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, chronic pain and addiction. He has received substantial, long-term support from international and national competitive, charitable and commercial sources, as well as being academic co-founder of three GPCR-focussed biotechnology companies. Professor Christopoulos has over 360 publications, including in leading international journals such as Nature,Science and Cell, and has delivered over 180 invited presentations. He has served on the Editorial Board of 8 international journals and was a Councillor of the International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR). He has also been the recipient of multiple awards, including the John J. Abel Award and the Goodman and Gilman Award from the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics; the Rand Medal from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists; the British Pharmacological Society’s Gaddum Memorial Award; the IUPHAR Sir James Black Analytical Pharmacology Lecturer; the GSK Award for Research Excellence and a Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) from the University of Athens. Since 2014, Clarivate Analytics have annually named him a Highly Cited Researcher in ‘Pharmacology & Toxicology’, and in 2021 also named him a Highly Cited Researcher in the additional category of ‘Biology & Biochemistry’. In 2017, he was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, in 2018 as a Fellow of the British Pharmacological Society, and in 2021 he was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science for his seminal contributions to drug discovery. In 2023, he was elected a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. " Dr. Arthur Christopoulos on the web Monash University Wikipedia Google Scholar LinkedIn Dr. GPCR AI Summary Quick recap Yamina and Arthur discussed Arthur's career journey in pharmacology, including his mentors and significant discoveries related to allosteric receptors. They explored the evolution of the field, allosteric modulation concepts, and potential therapeutic approaches involving autoantibodies and allosteric modulators. Additionally, they covered the importance of target product profiles, reproducibility in experiments, and collaborative efforts such as a potential book on GPCR history. Next steps - Arthur will continue to collaborate with other researchers and drug companies to advance the understanding and application of allosteric modulation. - Arthur will work on designing ligands for specific receptors, aiming to create biased agonists for therapeutic use. Summary Arthur's Career Journey and Allosteric Receptors Yamina and Arthur discussed Arthur's career journey and his contributions to the field of pharmacology, with a focus on allosteric receptors and their modulation. Arthur highlighted his mentors' influence, such as Fred Mitchelson and Nigel Burch, and significant discoveries like the concept of synthetic allosteric modulators by Bruns and Fergus. He also discussed the evolution of the field, from biochemical radioligand binding assays to cell-based functional assays, and the influence of Terry Kenakin and chemical programs on his later work. The conversation ended with Arthur's ongoing research and his development of a new operational model. Yamina emphasized the importance of understanding the historical context of the field and the significance of Arthur's contributions. Allosteric Modulation and Hybrid Molecules Arthur and Yamina discussed the development of an operational model for allosteric modulation, emphasizing the balance between mechanism and empiricism. Arthur shared his career journey, including his collaboration with Patrick Sexton and Jim Burch, and the discovery of hybrid molecules with functional selectivity. They also discussed the re-emergence of interest in certain programs, the importance of connections across receptor families, and the potential of hybrid molecules. Arthur's strategy of consulting drug companies and targeting their posters at conferences was also shared with Yamina. Pharmaceutical Industry Experiences and GPCR History Arthur shared his experiences in the pharmaceutical industry, highlighting the differences between big pharma and biotech. They discussed strategies for analyzing large compound screening data, emphasizing robust assays and addressing issues like shifting curves. Arthur recounted a 2004 visit to a pharma company using replicates in assays. Yamina proposed compiling a book on GPCR history through collaborative interviews, considering a symposium to align terminology. For their upcoming project, Yamina favored a conversational approach, while Arthur suggested a kickoff meeting, with Yamina planning chapters and interviews. Bias Mitigation in Symposium Ideas Arthur and Yamina discussed the concept of bias in the context of the history of the Symposium idea. They reviewed significant early papers related to the topic, including work by Brian Roth, Terry Kenakin, Bill Clarke, and Kelly Burke. They also discussed their own research on chemokine receptors and the importance of understanding the natural environment in drug discovery. Lastly, they touched on a project with Nicola Smith that challenged their previous theories. Allosteric Modulation and Drug Discovery Yamina and Arthur delved into the complexities of protein-protein interactions, specifically allosteric modulation. They discussed various modulatory elements, such as RAMPs, G proteins, and GRKs, with Arthur recounting his initial collaboration with Patrick Sexton on RAMPs and amylin receptors. They also delved into the different signaling of Class B receptors and the potential for modulation at various levels. The discussion underscored the potential of allosteric modulators as drugs, despite challenges in the past due to a lack of understanding about the principles involved. They highlighted the importance of fine-tuning the approach to suit different diseases and interdisciplinary collaboration. The discussion also emphasized the need for a disease-specific approach, considering the clinical context and dialing in the desired effect, as well as the significance of rational drug design principles. Allosteric Modulation and Autoantibodies Discussion Arthur and Yamina discussed the potential of autoantibodies and allosteric modulation in the context of disease and therapeutic approaches. Arthur explained the concept of endogenous allosteric ligands and the possibility of using a neutral allosteric ligand as a preferred therapeutic approach, emphasizing the importance of looking for low level cooperativity factors. They also discussed the potential of certain drugs, like flumazenil, as 'nails' or compounds that could be developed into medicines. The conversation highlighted the importance of establishing the correct disease context, setting up appropriate assays, and understanding the models for their work. They both agreed on the necessity of understanding the target product for an allosteric modulator and working backwards from there. TPP, Allosteric Modulators, and Reproducibility Yamina and Arthur discussed the concept of a target product profile (TPP) in drug development, with Arthur explaining its application in other contexts as well. Yamina appreciated Arthur's expertise and indicated she would be creating an outline for an episode on allosteric modulators. They highlighted the importance of reproducibility in scientific experiments, sharing personal experiences and anecdotes. They also discussed their upcoming trips to the GPCR Colloquium in California and current research in their fields. 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. Juan José Fung About Dr. Juan José Fung Dr. Juan José Fung is a Principal Scientist at GPCR Therapeutics, Inc , a drug discovery company focused on targeting GPCR heteromers in cancer, headquartered in Seoul, Korea, with an R&D facility in the SF Bay Area. Dr. Fung received his Ph.D. from the Stanford University School of Medicine under the mentorship of Dr. Brian Kobilka , studying the dimerization of GPCRs. Dr. Fung continued his Postdoctoral training in Dr. Kobilka’s lab contributing to the elucidation of high-resolution structures of various GPCRs. Dr. Fung has spent significant time in the industry studying membrane proteins, antibodies, and HTS methods for drug discovery. His current work is mainly focused on screening and assay development to bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo GPCR pharmacology. Dr. Juan José Fung on the web LinkedIn GPCR Therapeutics 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. Arthur Christopoulos About Dr. Arthur Christopoulos " Arthur Christopoulos is the Professor of Analytical Pharmacology and the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Australia. His research focuses on novel paradigms of drug action at GPCRs, particularly allosteric modulation and biased agonism, and incorporates computational and mathematical modelling, structural and chemical biology, molecular and cellular pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and preclinical models of behaviour and disease. His work has been applied to studies encompassing neurological and psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, chronic pain and addiction. He has received substantial, long-term support from international and national competitive, charitable and commercial sources, as well as being academic co-founder of three GPCR-focussed biotechnology companies. Professor Christopoulos has over 360 publications, including in leading international journals such as Nature,Science and Cell, and has delivered over 180 invited presentations. He has served on the Editorial Board of 8 international journals and was a Councillor of the International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR). He has also been the recipient of multiple awards, including the John J. Abel Award and the Goodman and Gilman Award from the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics; the Rand Medal from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists; the British Pharmacological Society’s Gaddum Memorial Award; the IUPHAR Sir James Black Analytical Pharmacology Lecturer; the GSK Award for Research Excellence and a Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) from the University of Athens. Since 2014, Clarivate Analytics have annually named him a Highly Cited Researcher in ‘Pharmacology & Toxicology’, and in 2021 also named him a Highly Cited Researcher in the additional category of ‘Biology & Biochemistry’. In 2017, he was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, in 2018 as a Fellow of the British Pharmacological Society, and in 2021 he was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science for his seminal contributions to drug discovery. In 2023, he was elected a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. " Dr. Arthur Christopoulos on the web Monash University Wikipedia Google Scholar LinkedIn Dr. GPCR AI Summary AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading. Always check for accuracy. Quick recap Yamina and Arthur from Monash University discussed Arthur's career journey, the importance of hard work, failure, and differentiation in academic and personal lives, and the value of international conferences. They also explored the significance of translating fundamental discoveries into clinical applications, the potential of new drugs, and the unique challenges within universities. Additionally, they discussed the importance of hiring based on differentiation, impact, and interest, the need for workforce development, and the potential of involving junior scientists and postdocs in their podcast. Lastly, they touched upon the global challenges of healthcare workforce growth, climate change, and emerging psychiatric disorders, as well as the importance of recording lectures and making pre-lesson materials available to students. Next steps - Yamina will share notes about PRISM and presentability with Arthur. - Arthur will share the story of PRISM's development and its impact on the field with Yamina. - Yamina will send an invite for a follow-up meeting with Arthur next Saturday at 9 PM. - Arthur and Yamina will prepare for the next meeting, focusing on the concept of biased agonism and discussing Dr. GPCR and the charity status. - Yamina will attempt to book Denise for a future podcast episode. Summary Arthur's Career Journey and Transition to Dean Yamina introduced Arthur to her team and discussed the use of a particular tool for meeting summaries. Arthur shared his career journey from pharmacy to becoming a professor, highlighting the influence of his mentors and the importance of his postdoctoral experience. They discussed the value of hard work, failure, and the significance of differentiation in their personal and academic lives. Towards the end, they focused on Arthur's transition to become Dean and his decision to move from Australia to the United States for a postdoctoral position. Postdoctoral Position, Scientific Dynamics, and New Drug Targets Arthur shared his decision to undertake a postdoctoral position with Nigel Bird's lab in the UK and his experiences of meeting influential figures during his time in the US. He and Yamina discussed the importance of preserving original work, the value of international conferences, and the dynamics between junior and senior scientists in a research environment. They also shared their admiration for the work of a mutual friend and discussed the history of muscarinic receptors, specifically focusing on the role of a compound that Arthur received from Fred. Lastly, they discussed the progress of new drugs targeting specific receptors for various diseases, with Arthur sharing insights on Eli Lilly's compound, Xanomeline, and the potential of M4 PAM for psychosis. Collaborative Research and Translational Approach Arthur and Yamina from Monash University discussed their collaborative approach to scientific research, emphasizing the benefits of combining their complementary skills and interests. They shared their unconventional approaches to research, including the creation of a critical mass of GPCR researchers in Australia and the initiation of a successful series of conferences. They also discussed the relocation of some university labs to facilitate collaboration and overcome the siloed department structure. Additionally, they explored the unique culture and structure of their Institute, highlighting its translational approach to research and its capacity to translate research into therapeutic commercialization. Lastly, Arthur shared three significant moments that shaped his career, including the evolution and impact of analytical pharmacology, particularly highlighting the role of Prism, a data analysis tool. Podcast Format, Team Culture, and Science Yamina and Arthur concluded their discussion and decided to take a short break. They talked about the format and length of their podcast, their professional interests, and their recent successful bid to bring Moderna to their university. They also explored the idea of starting a similar talk show format to 'Between Two Ferns', the importance of maintaining team culture, and the potential health issues among well-known scientists. Lastly, they discussed the growth and development of the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, the importance of knowing when to let go in scientific experiments, and the idea of a panel for building and incubating companies. Arthur's Pandemic Journey and Global Challenges Yamina and Arthur discussed Arthur's experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic, his journey as a research fellow in Australia, and his transition to the role of Dean. Arthur shared his insights into the unique grant funding system in Australia, the importance of impact in research, and the challenges of balancing administrative responsibilities with scientific pursuits. He also reflected on his personal health struggles, the growth of his university, and the faculty's successful response to the Covid crisis. The conversation also touched upon Arthur's career decisions, his scientific achievements, and the importance of learning from mistakes and self-confidence. Lastly, they discussed the global challenges of healthcare workforce growth, climate change, and emerging psychiatric disorders, as well as the importance of recording lectures and having pre-lesson materials available to students. Translating Discovery Into Clinical Application Arthur and Yamina discussed the importance of translating fundamental discoveries into clinical applications in their research, highlighting the unique opportunities presented by their location and partnerships with other institutions. They stressed the necessity of making their research goals clearer, avoiding replication, and adopting a more assertive approach in grant applications. They also emphasized the significance of fundamental discoveries, the role of biotech, and the need for efficiency and process development in university systems. The conversation highlighted ongoing challenges within universities, including resistance to change and the need to communicate expectations and protect established cultures. Hiring Process, Collaboration, and Education-Focused Initiatives Arthur emphasized the importance of differentiation, impact, and interest in their hiring process and fostering a culture of collaboration. He shared his vision of breaking down barriers and promoting education-focused initiatives, encouraging his team to be innovative and apply their skills to education. Yamina expressed a desire to learn from successful leaders and the importance of recognizing talent and matching it with the needs of a particular project. They also discussed the disruption within the pharmaceutical sector, the importance of workforce development, and the need for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Lastly, they deliberated on involving junior scientists and postdocs in their podcast and the possibility of writing a book about their experiences in academia. 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. Qing Fan About this episode Dr. Fan is currently an associate professor of Pharmacology and Pathology and Cell Biology at Columbia University in NYC. Qing is a structural biologist interested in the molecular mechanisms controlling how class C GPCRs transmit signals. She obtained her bachelor's, master and doctoral degrees at Harvard University and completed her postdoctoral training with Dr. Hendrickson at Columbia University. Join us and learn more about Qing's work and how we powered through a technical issue during the interview. Dr. Qing Fan on the web Fan Lab Dr. Fan at Columbia University Research Gate LinkedIn 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. Caron Tribute Part 2 About Marc Caron Dr. Caron and his family moved to Durham, NC in 1977, following receipt of his BSc in Chemistry from Laval University and his Ph.D. from the University of Miami. He joined the faculty of Laval University School of Medicine in 1975 and then returned to join Duke’s faculty, where he remained as a James B. Duke Professor until his death. He and his laboratory members studied the mechanisms of action and regulation of hormones and neurotransmitters and how they might underlie brain and behavior disorders such as schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, mood disorders, and addiction. Among his many honors, Dr. Caron was an investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute from 1992 to 2004, a member of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and a recipient of the Julius Axelrod Award. An authoritative and prolific scientist, with over 650 scientific publications, he is most beloved as a mentor and his relentless encouragement that shaped the careers of hundreds of scientists worldwide. About our panelists in alphabetical order and the year they first met Dr. Caron Dr. Larry Barak (1994) Dr. Kathleen Caron - Co-host- (1970) Dr. Steve Ferguson (1995) Dr. Neel Freedman (1994) Dr. Jacob Jacobson (2003) Dr. Stephane Laporte (1999) Dr. Stuart Maudsley (1997) Dr. Richard Premont (1993) Dr. Jie Zhang (1990) 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. Davide Calebiro About Dr. Davide Calebiro "Davide Calebiro is Chair of Molecular Endocrinology and Wellcome Trust Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR) of the University of Birmingham and Co-Director of the Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE) of the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham. He studied Medicine in Milan and Stockholm, and obtained a PhD in Molecular Medicine and a Clinical Specialisation in Endocrinology and Metabolic Disease from the University of Milan. Between 2009 and 2017, he was a Group Leader at the Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Rudolf Virchow Center of the University of Würzburg, Germany. He leads a multidisciplinary research team comprising biologists, chemists, physicists, engineers and computer scientists focusing on the basic mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signalling and their alterations in endocrine, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. To study GPCR signalling, they develop and use innovative optical methods based on FRET and single-molecule microscopy, which allow them to directly observe signalling events in living cells and tissues with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution. His major scientific contributions include the discovery that GPCRs are not only active at the plasma membrane but also at intracellular sites and that these receptors interact among themselves and with other membrane proteins to form dynamic nanodomains at the plasma membrane. Davide’s work has been published in prestigious scientific journals such as Nature, Cell, New England Journal of Medicine, Journal of Clinical Investigation, PLoS Biology, PNAS, Nature Communications and Science Advances, attracting several prizes and awards. He has served on multiple panels and committees, including the ENDO Annual Meeting Steering Committee and the MRC Molecular & Cellular Medicine Board." Dr. Davide Calebiro on the web University of Birmingham Twitter 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 >>

Sokhom Pin shares how he built a biotech career around GPCRs, designed a custom PhD path, and led teams through empowerment and purpose. << Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) GPCR Pharmacology, Career Twists & Serendipity with Sokhom Pin From the Bench to the Boardroom Sokhom Pin’s story begins not with prestige or privilege but with grit and commitment. From his early work as a technician at Johns Hopkins Hospital to leading biology at Servo Therapeutics, Sokhom’s journey is rooted in practicality and purpose. He shares: "All my industry experience has been GPCR-focused." Starting at DuPont, then BMS, Novartis, and eventually founding in vitro pharmacology departments, Sokhom always stayed anchored to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Family First, Always The decision to shift from academia to industry wasn’t driven by disillusionment—it was about responsibility. “I had two kids and realized I just couldn’t support a family on a technician’s salary.” This pragmatic decision led him to high-throughput screening at DuPont, proving that scientific ambition doesn’t have to mean sacrificing personal commitments. Falling in Love with GPCRs GPCR pharmacology captured his scientific curiosity. Sokhom recalls how binding assays at BMS introduced him to the depth and complexity of receptor pharmacology: “It’s not just about IC50s. There’s allosterism, receptor desensitization… it opened a whole new world.” This moment became pivotal—transforming technical proficiency into passion. Designing a Non-Traditional PhD While working full-time, Sokhom architected a one-of-a-kind PhD program between BMS and UConn. “I had to find a way. I wanted a PhD, but I couldn’t quit my job.” Through strategic coordination, he executed a PhD entirely in the industry setting—efficient, targeted, and rooted in real-world projects like CGRP receptor antagonists. From Scientist to Leader At Alkermes, Sokhom took his first leadership role and finally experienced the power of empowerment . “That’s the moment that changed my entire career. I was trusted to build a team from scratch.” He focused on culture—ensuring passion and purpose drove performance. The Power of the Right Culture Whether it was Alkermes or Cerevel, Sokhom emphasized that team culture trumps individual genius . “It doesn’t matter how brilliant someone is—if they’re toxic, I don’t want them on the team.” He built what others called the “happiest team at Alkermes,” showing that joy and scientific rigor aren’t mutually exclusive. Network or Miss Out One powerful shift came when Sokhom leaned into networking—despite being an introvert. “I changed from being an extreme introvert to someone who thrives on connection.” His story underscores how something as simple as forwarding a resume or reaching out for coffee can change careers. The Lifecycle of GPCR Popularity Sokhom has witnessed the waves of scientific fashion: “There was a time GPCRs were hot, then ignored. Now they’re back.” His unwavering dedication through these cycles became an asset—many others shifted focus, leaving a smaller, highly skilled group of GPCR specialists. Lessons from Molecules and Mentors He draws inspiration from scientific complexity and colleagues like Arthur Christopoulos and Terry Kenakin. “What fascinates me is how the same molecule behaves differently depending on one amino acid.” He blends classical receptor pharmacology with biosensor technology, always adapting to new tools and insights. Don’t Let Weakness Define You The episode ends with a deeply human reflection: “Don’t let your weakness define your life. Overcome it. I used to sweat thinking about presentations. Now I love them.” Whether it’s networking, leadership, or technical mastery, Sokhom’s message is clear: keep evolving, and don’t settle. Key Takeaway Sokhom Pin's journey is a masterclass in scientific persistence , non-traditional success , and values-driven leadership . For any scientist navigating career uncertainty—his story is both roadmap and inspiration. About Sokhom Pin Sokhom Pin is a receptor pharmacologist with over 20 years of drug discovery research in the pharmaceutical industry, where he works mainly on GPCRs as therapeutic targets. He is passionate about mechanistic profiling of therapeutic molecules as well as drug discovery in general. Outside of science Sokhom enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, and biking. Sokhom Pin 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 >>

<< 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 >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Julia Gardner About Julia Gardner Julia is a senior undergraduate student at Duke University, where she studies chemistry and Chinese. Julia has been working as a researcher in Duke's Rajagopal Lab since her first year as an undergraduate. In the Rajagopal Lab, Julia studies the mechanisms of 'biased signaling' at GPCRs, with a specific focus on the chemokine receptor CXCR3. She recently led a project that demonstrated the GPCR kinases (GRKs) can translocate to endosomes, and that the subcellular localization of the GRKs affects a GPCR's biased signaling profile. Last summer, Julia worked at as the first-ever summer intern at Septerna, the GPCR-based biotechnology company founded by Duke Nobel laureate Dr. Robert Lefkowitz. In the fall, Julia will begin her MD/PhD training. Julia Gardner on the web Rajagopal Lab Google Scholar ResearchGate 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. Timo De Groof About Dr. Timo De Groof Dr. Timo De Groof studied Biochemistry and Biotechnology at the University of Ghent where he graduated in 2015. During his master's studies, he specialized in Biomedical Biotechnology and Structural Biology/Biochemistry. During his last year of studies, Timo performed research in the biopharmaceutical company Argen X and gained experience in the identification and characterization of llama-derived antibodies in inflammatory diseases and oncology. From 2015 to 2019, he completed his Ph.D. in the Medicinal Chemistry group at VU University Amsterdam under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Martine Smit . During his Ph.D., Timo, together with Dr. Raimond Heukers , developed a nanobody platform within the research group and used this platform to develop nanobodies targeting viral G protein-coupled receptors with a special focus on the human cytomegalovirus-encoded chemokine receptor US28. During his Ph.D., he used these nanobodies as research tools, to investigate different GPCR conformations, while also focusing on their therapeutic potential in oncology and transplant infectious disease. Starting from September 2019, Timo started working as a postdoctoral researcher at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel in the In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging (ICMI) group that is focused on translational/clinical applications of nanobodies. He currently is focusing on the development of nanobody-based immuno tracers as part of the IMI/EFPIA project entitled "Immune Image". Moreover, he is closely involved in multiple projects where he focuses on the generation of nanobodies against "difficult-to-target" proteins. In the near future, Timo hopes to combine his previous GPCR experience with his current focus to set up his own research line focusing on translational applications of GPCR-targeting nanobodies. Dr. Timo De Groof on the web LinkedIn Researchgate Twitter Medical Imaging Group 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 >>

<< Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Dr. Gunnar Schulte About Dr. Gunnar Schulte Gunnar Schulte is a Professor in receptor pharmacology and research group leader for the section Receptor Biology and Signaling at the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology. He has a background in biochemistry from the Free University in Berlin/Germany and a Ph.D. in molecular pharmacology (supervisor: Bertil B Fredholm; 1998-2002) from Karolinska Institutet. As a postdoc, he trained first with Ernest Arenas (Karolinska Institutet, Molecular Neurobiology; 2003-2005) and later with Roger J Summers (Monash University, Melbourne Australia, GPCR pharmacology; 2006) before starting his independent research team "Receptor Biology & Signalling" in 2008. Gunnar Schulte is also the scientific secretary of the Swedish Society for Medical Research (SSMF) and a member of the editorial board/editorial advisory board of Molecular Pharmacology, British Journal of Pharmacology, Pharmacological Reviews, and The Journal of Biological Chemistry. General Research Interest: The focus in the Schulte lab is on Frizzled signaling and pharmacology aiming to understand the role of WNT/Frizzled signaling in biology, physiology, and disease. Most importantly my research team tries to understand underlying mechanisms of WNT-receptor interaction, the relevance of receptor dynamics, and receptor complex composition for signal initiation and specification. The ultimate aim is to use the new knowledge to find, create and optimize Frizzled-targeting small molecule drugs to improve future therapies of human disease. Dr. Gunnar Schulte on the web Schulte Lab LinkedIn Google Scholar Orcid YouTube 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. Stephane Angers About Dr. Stephane Angers Dr. Angers is an expert in the field of signal transduction. He obtained his Ph.D. from the Université de Montréal in 2002 under the guidance of Dr. Michel Bouvier . His thesis work led to the development and application of light energy transfer methodology to study protein-protein interaction and signal transduction. From 2002-2006 he was a Howard Hughes Post-Doctoral Fellow at the University of Washington in Seattle under Dr. Randall T. Moon , where he identified and characterized novel components of the Wnt signaling pathway and a new class of E3 ubiquitin ligases . In October 2006, Dr. Angers established his independent research program in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Faculty of Pharmacy and the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Toronto. He is the recipient of the Canada Research Chair in Functional Architecture of Signal Transduction. His research program is developed to understand the signaling mechanisms underlying the Wnt and Hedgehog families of growth factors and their signaling mechanisms in development, adult tissue homeostasis, and human diseases. His pioneer work led to the development of novel antibody molecules blocking and activating the Wnt pathway for the treatment of cancers and regenerative medicine applications. He is the scientific founder of two biotech companies, ModMab Therapeutics , and AntlerA Therapeutics , which are pursuing the clinical development of these molecules. In September 2021, Dr. Angers was named Director of the Donnelly Centre of Cellular and Biomolecular Research at the University of Toronto, an internationally recognized Research Institute bringing together multidisciplinary teams of scientists. Dr. Stephane Angers on the web Angers Lab The Donnelly Centre Twitter Dr. GPCR Ecosystem 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 >>

Discover how finance and science intersect in this Dr. GPCR Podcast episode with Joe St. Germain and Chuck DeWeese, as they share what it takes to build mission-driven startups and research organizations. << Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Finance is Science too: How Numbers Keep the Lights On with Chuck DeWeese & Joe St. Germain In Episode Dr. Yamina Berchiche welcomes Chuck DeWeese and Joe St. Germain of Company Launch Partners for an inspiring discussion on the intersection of accounting, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit mission building . With the Dr. GPCR ecosystem officially becoming a nonprofit, this episode offers valuable insight into the financial backbone required to scale scientific and community-driven initiatives. The Launch Pad: Company Launch Partners Joe St. Germain, founder of Company Launch Partners, shares how he transitioned from corporate finance to creating a service firm dedicated to startups and nonprofits . A self-declared problem-solver, Joe describes how working with early-stage companies reignited his passion for helping others build impactful ventures. Chuck DeWeese, controller at CLP, joined the mission after pivoting from a sales career into accounting, where he found his professional calling in " making the numbers make sense ." "There’s something really sick with accounting people... that accounting high when everything reconciles." – Chuck DeWeese The Nonprofit Spark: Partnering with Dr. GPCR The episode dives into how Joe and Chuck began collaborating with the Dr. GPCR ecosystem. Yamina reached out to Joe with accounting questions during his vacation—an email that sparked a partnership. Chuck stepped in to help structure the nonprofit’s financial framework , showcasing how specialized knowledge and timing can catalyze long-term collaborations. “You always email me when I’m on vacation.” – Joe St. Germain (laughing) Accounting Highs & Scientific Parallels Yamina draws a parallel between reconciling complex financial data and a scientist getting a long-awaited result. Both Chuck and Joe agree: accounting is like solving puzzles. It's about structure, order, and breakthrough moments , not unlike the life of a researcher. “Finance grows the beans, but you don’t get to that point until you count them.” – Chuck DeWeese Jumping Off the Cliff: The Entrepreneur’s Leap Joe shares the risks of launching a business while supporting a family, emphasizing the mental resilience and self-care needed. He compares entrepreneurship to a scientist’s journey: uncertainty, trial-and-error, and the necessity of mentorship. "I’m a startup working with startups. That support system made the leap manageable." – Joe St. Germain Networking: Relationship Over Transaction Both guests stress that business is built on relationships , not transactions. Joe often helps people with problems unrelated to accounting, simply to build trust. Chuck adds that networking is about planting seeds and being patient. “We assess and sometimes say: ‘You’re not quite at our level yet. Let’s help you set up and come back when you’re ready.’” – Chuck DeWeese Accounting for Grants: Buckets, Structure & Strategy The discussion covers the unique complexities of grant accounting in nonprofits. Unlike startups, nonprofits must adhere to strict allocation rules. Chuck explains that every dollar needs a bucket and purpose. "Accounting counts the beans with 100% accuracy. Finance grows the beans, but you don’t get to finance without accounting first." – Chuck DeWeese Culture Fit: Who Gets to Join the Team? When building their team, Joe and Chuck prioritize character over experience . They look for organized, upbeat, can-do individuals—many of whom are working mothers. A standout story is Kendra, a team member with no prior accounting experience who quickly became a key contributor. "Hire for character, train for skill. That’s how we grow." – Joe St. Germain The Joy of Building with Purpose Joe’s personal mission— to make a positive impact on people’s lives —drives their client selection. They avoid companies that don’t align with their values, like the vaping industry. Instead, they seek out startups and nonprofits working toward social impact and innovation . “We’ve only turned down one client for ethical reasons. We want to make the world better.” – Joe St. Germain The Science of Finance: A Shared Language Throughout the episode, Yamina and her guests underscore that finance and science share more than most people think —both require rigor, discipline, and a process-oriented mindset. This realization forms a deep connection between accountants and scientists alike. “Accounting is a science too. You build systems, track data, and interpret outcomes.” – Chuck DeWeese Final Reflections: Growing Together Yamina closes with the story behind the podcast’s creation—how a moment at a Starbucks in Target led her to launch a platform that now empowers GPCR scientists worldwide. It’s about finding the right people, solving hard problems, and creating something bigger than yourself . "I come alive when I do this. The podcast is about connecting people through science and story." – Yamina Berchiche Key Takeaway Whether you're launching a startup, building a nonprofit, or running a research lab, success comes down to relationships, integrity, and learning the systems that power sustainability . And yes, finance is a science too. About Company Launch Partners Company Launch Partners is a fractional finance and accounting service focused on early stage companies. Simply put, we partner with companies to help them launch. The company has been working with startup companies since 2017, serves 25 clients and has assisted over a 100 companies as they start their journey. Company Launch Partners on the web Company Launch Partners 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. David Sykes About Dr. David Sykes " David Andrew Sykes, BSc Hons Pharmacology, MSc Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, PhD in Molecular Pharmacology & Drug Discovery. David has over 20+ years of experience working in a drug discovery environment mainly in a specialist assay development role and most recently with Novartis. In 2014 David joined the University of Nottingham and began a part-time PhD in Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Discovery that he was awarded in 2020. During this period David has made a significant contribution to the understanding of agonist/ antagonist GPCR kinetic determinants in an area of growing scientific interest. His current interests include the development of HTS fluorescence-based kinetic binding assays specifically designed to assess the kinetics of unlabelled compounds (and chemical fragments) and the use of purified receptor/ effector proteins as tools for drug discovery. " Dr. David Sykes on the web Veprintsev Lab ResearchGate 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. Josephine (Pina) Cardarelli About Dr. Josephine (Pina) Cardarelli Dr. Pina Cardarelli, CSO for GPCR Therapeutics Inc., based in South Korea, has recently been named President of GPCR Therapeutics, USA, a newly incorporated Biotechnology company in the Bay Area. The company’s mission is to discover and develop highly effective cancer therapeutics by targeting heteromers of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR). Burixafor, their most advanced clinical candidate, will be in Phase II clinical trial next year. Additionally, they have a library of target GPCR heteromers for Oncology. Dr. Cardarelli heads the team of talented researchers that will be expanding at the US site. Dr. Cardarelli is a drug development leader with extensive experience driving drug discovery teams in bringing biologics to clinical proof of concepts. She has expertise in cell biology, pharmacology, translational medicine, oncology, immuno-oncology, immunology, and clinical development. Previously, she held the position of Vice President of Cell Biology & Pharmacology, at Bristol-Myers Squibb . She was an integral contributor to two therapeutics that are FDA approved, Yervoy and Opdivo. She was a participant in numerous due diligence (anti-CXCL8 mAb) and has managed external collaborations and alliances. Prior to this, she held the position of Vice President, at Medarex, Inc . While at BMS and Medarex, she led programs from target ID to clinical development that included, CXCL10 (Eldelumab), CXCR4 (Ulocuplumab), CD30, CD19, Fucosyl GM-1, & mesothelin-ADC, Glypican-3-ADC, CD70-ADC. She oversaw early discovery programs IL-23 p19 and IL23 p19/IL-17 bispecifics. At Medarex, she initiated and identified the lead mAb for the type I interferon-alpha receptor project, licensed to AstraZeneca (Saphnelo™ Anifrolumab) that has just received FDA approval for systemic lupus erythematosus. She has extensive experience working with Biologics, and Antibody Drug Conjugates as well as experience in IND fillings, IB updates, and responding to FDA inquiries. She is an inventor on 39 issued U.S. patents including anti-PD-1 patents, 22 EP patents, and greater than 100 global patents centered around therapeutic development. She has also authored forty-six peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Cardarelli received her Ph.D. in Physiology from Albany Medical College. Dr. Josephine (Pina) Cardarelli on the web LinkedIn Company Website 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) 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. Stephen Ferguson The History of the Great Lakes GPCR Retreat with Dr. Stephen Ferguson About Dr. Stephen Ferguson Dr. Stephen Ferguson is a Professor in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Ottawa. He did B.Sc. in biology at McGill University and received his Ph.D. under the mentorship of Dr. Brian Collier in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at McGill University (1994). He did his postdoctoral training with Dr. Marc G. Caron at Duke University (1994-1997), where he and his colleagues investigated the role of G protein-coupled receptor kinases and beta-arrestin in regulating G protein-coupled receptor endocytosis, trafficking, and signaling. He has held four Canada Research Chairs since 2001 and was previously a Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada MacDonald Scholar (1998-2003) and Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario Career Investigator (2003-2016). He was a recipient of Canada's Top 40 under 40 award in 2004 and received Queen Elizabeth II, Diamond Jubilee Medal, in 2012. He has also received both Junior (2001) and Senior (2005) investigator awards from the Pharmacological Society of Canada. Most recently, in 2021, he was elected as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Science (FCAHS). His research career has focused on the investigation of the regulation of G protein-coupled receptors signaling mechanisms in health and disease. He currently holds multiple research grants from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) for his research investigating the role of metabotropic glutamate receptor signaling in Huntington’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Stephen Ferguson on the web Carlton University Canada Research Chairs Twitter ResearchGate LinkedIn Dr. GPCR Ecosystem Great Lakes GPCR Retreat on the web 21st Great Lakes GPCR Retreat More about previous GPCR Retreat meetings 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. Michel Bouvier About Dr. Michel Bouvier Michel Bouvier is a professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine and the CEO of the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer ( IRIC ) at the Université de Montréal. Following his Ph.D. in Neurological Sciences at the same university in 1985, he completed a post-doctoral fellow at Duke University in the laboratory of Robert Lefkowitz. In 1989, he returned to Montréal as a professor of biochemistry and a scholar of the Medical Research Council of Canada at the Faculty of Medicine of the Université de Montréal. Since 2001, he holds the Canada Research Chair in Signal Transduction and Molecular Pharmacology. Dr. Bouvier is the author of 300 scientific papers and 15 patents and delivered close to 500 invited conferences. He is a world-renowned expert in the field of cell signaling and GPCRs and made seminal contributions to our understanding of this major class of drug targets. In addition to paradigm shifts including inverse agonism, biased signaling, and pharmacological chaperones, his work on bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) resulted in the development of screening assays that are now widely used for drug discovery. His work received more than 30,000 citations yielding an h-index of 95. He has supervised the research work of 75 graduate students and 40 post-doctoral fellows. Michel’s scientific contributions were recognized by the attribution of many awards and distinctions including his election as a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2014), the Julie Axelrod award from the American Society of Pharmacology and Exerimental Therapeutics (2017), the Wilder Penfield award from the Quebec Government (2017), the innovation award of ADRIQ (2019) and the 2021 Killam prize form the Canada Council for the Arts. As some of you may know, Michel was one of my professors at the Universite de Montreal. He was also the head of both my Master’s and Ph.D. thesis committees. I was and am still impressed by Dr. Bouvier’s ability to ask highly relevant questions during meetings. In this episode, you will hear us talk about it. I spent some time working in Michel’s lab with some of his postdocs and although I was never officially a member of the lab, I am humbled to have been able to work with him and his team and use the tools developed in his lab to better understand GPCR structure/function relationships. Dr. Michel Bouvier on the web Wikipedia IRIC Bouvier Lab Google Scholar Pubmed ResearchGate Twitter LinkedIn Universite de Montreal- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine 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) Tanishka S. Saraf About Tanishka S. Saraf " My research focuses on evaluating and targeting serotonin 1A receptors for therapeutic outcomes for Fragile X Syndrome. During my PhD, I learnt radioligand binding assays, behavioral assays, autoradiography, stereotaxic surgeries, electroencephalography, immunohistochemistry, mouse colony management and breeding. I would like to keep working in the central nervous system disorders realm to understand the neurobiology of neuropsychiatric disorders and to develop safe and effective treatments. " Tanishka S. Saraf on the web FRAXA Research Foundation Google Scholar ResearchGate 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. Jean Martin Beaulieu About Dr. Jean Martin Beaulieu Dr. Beaulieu received a Ph.D. in Neurological Sciences from McGill University and completed his post-doctoral training at Duke University. Prior to his recruitment Dr. Beaulieu was an associate professor and Canada Research Chair (Tier2) in the Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience at Laval University. Dr. Beaulieu’s research is aimed at understanding how cellular and molecular mechanisms regulated by psychoactive drugs intersect with genetic risk factors for mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder. Dr. Beaulieu has pioneered work establishing a role for Beta-arrestin signaling in the brain in vivo and has established its importance in D2 dopamine receptors (D2R) functions. These receptors belong to the super-family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR), the major molecular target for drug development. In particular, D2R is the main pharmacological target of antipsychotic drugs prescribed for schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. Work by the Beaulieu Lab has demonstrated that mood stabilizer drugs (e.g. lithium) used for bipolar disorder therapy target signaling mechanisms regulated by dopamine receptors, thus providing a framework to understand how different drug classes can engage overlapping cellular mechanisms to exert their action. The Beaulieu group is presently investigating how cell surface express proteins can act as allosteric modulators of D2R signaling and explores the potential usefulness of beta-arrestins for the development of new pharmaceutical agents. Translational validation is important to validate findings obtained from experimental models research and bridge the gap between bench and bedside. Working in collaboration with geneticists, the Beaulieu-Lab has identified interactions between cellular mechanisms engaged by D2R and psychiatric drugs with genetic risk factors implicated in schizophrenia by large whole-genome association studies (GWAS) in humans. These investigations have led to the identification of an RNA binding protein (FXR1P) involved in the regulation of protein synthesis as a potential downstream effector of the action of mood stabilizers and other psychoactive drugs. In addition to basic research, the Beaulieu group is also actively implicated in translational research and industry collaboration to develop new drugs and drug development technology. Dr. Jean Martin Beaulieu on the web University of Toronto Google Scholar LinkedIn ResearchGate 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. Bianca Plouffe About Dr. Bianca Plouffe Dr. Bianca Plouffe obtained her B.Sc. in Biochemistry in 2003 from Université de Sherbrooke (Qc, Canada). She then completed an M.Sc. in Physiology from the same university in 2005 by investigating the molecular mechanisms involved in the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R)-mediated neurite outgrowth while characterizing new selective AT2R agonists. In 2006, Bianca obtained a Doctoral Scholarship from the Fonds de Recherche du Québec en Santé. She moved to the University of Ottawa to complete a Ph.D. in Neuroscience. She identified the molecular mechanisms involved in the opposite regulation of dopamine D1 and D5 receptors by protein kinase C. After obtaining a Postdoctoral Fellowship from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research in 2012, Bianca joined the research group of Prof Michel Bouvier at Université de Montréal. As part of Bouvier’s team, Bianca used Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer (BRET)-based technology to tackle important questions related to GPCRs. She identified the structural determinant controlling biased signaling of melatonin type 2 receptors in the context of protection against type 2 diabetes. Bianca also collaborated with Prof. Robert Lefkowitz , which led to the finding that both β-arrestin and G protein can simultaneously bind to some GPCRs when signaling in endosomes by forming a megaplex. In 2018, Bianca was appointed Vice-Chancellor’s Fellow at Queen’s University Belfast to develop her research program. Funded by a Wellcome Trust Seed Award, she investigated biased and compartmentalized G protein signaling by the vasopressin type 2 receptor. In 2021, Bianca secured a permanent position as a lecturer. Her subsequent work has focused on understanding the role of compartmentalized Gq signaling by the cytomegalovirus-encoded chemokine US28 receptor in the context of glioblastoma. Dr. Bianca Plouffe on the web Queen's University Belfast website LinkedIn ResearchGate ORCID 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. Ilana Kotliar About Dr. Ilana Kotliar "Ilana Kotliar is a postdoctoral associate in the lab of Tom Sakmar at The Rockefeller University, where she just recently defended her PhD thesis. Ilana uses chemical biology-based methods to study the regulation and protein-protein interactions of GPCRs and a small family of accessory proteins called RAMPs. Ilana’s research is multi-disciplinary and involves a close collaboration with proteomics experts at The Science for Life Laboratory in Sweden. She is a recipient of the prestigious Women in Entrepreneurship Award, an NIH T32 Training Grant, and two Nicholson Fellowships. Outside of the lab, Ilana is a leader within her community, spearheading several outreach initiatives including a global mentoring initiative that matches graduate student mentors to PhD applicants. Ilana graduated Summa cum laude from Cornell University, where she studied Chemistry and Chemical Biology and was recognized as a Merrill Presidential Scholar." Dr. Ilana Kotliar on the web Google Scholar LinkedIn Twitter 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. Aylin Hanyaloglu About Dr. Aylin Hanyaloglu Dr. Aylin Hanyaloglu has been a Principal Investigator at Imperial College London since 2007. She received her BSc in Human Biology from King’s College London in 1997, and while her Ph.D. commenced at the MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Centre, Edinburgh, a move to Perth, Australia resulted in her Ph.D. in Molecular Endocrinology being awarded in 2002 with Distinction from the University of Western Australia. Dr. Hanyaloglu undertook her postdoctoral training at the University of California, San Francisco with Professor Mark von Zastrow where she identified novel core cellular machinery critical for G protein-coupled receptor trafficking and signaling. Her research focuses on understanding the fundamental cell biological mechanisms regulating GPCR activity, including spatial control of GPCR signaling and receptor crosstalk, and applying these mechanisms for distinct GPCRs in diverse physiological and pathophysiological systems, with particular focus on women's health, pregnancy, and nutrient sensing in the gut. Her work is currently funded by Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), Diabetes UK, Wellcome Trust, and the Medical Research Council. Dr. Aylin Hanyaloglu on the web LinkedIn Researchgate Twitter Imperial College London Elsevier Loop 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 >>

Explore how GPCR signaling shapes mosquito feeding and mating behaviors with Dr. Laura Duvall. Insights for GPCR researchers and functional assay innovators. << Back to podcast list Strategic Partner(s) Why Mosquitoes Hunt You: GPCR Control of Blood Feeding and Mating This episode features Dr. Laura Duvall, whose research tracks the molecular mechanisms that govern mosquito behavior, focusing on the intersection of neuropeptide signaling and GPCR function. Dr. Duvall discusses her lab’s work dissecting how GPCRs—especially neuropeptide Y (NPY) receptors—regulate innate behaviors such as blood feeding and mating in Aedes aegypti . She shares approaches that combine genetic manipulation (CRISPR-Cas9) and functional behavioral assays, including high-throughput and video-based methods, to reveal these receptors’ roles. The conversation explores translational implications, such as leveraging conserved GPCR pathways to inhibit pathogen transmission, highlighting unexpected links between mosquito and human gut-brain signaling. Dr. Duvall emphasizes the value of model systems and cross-species discoveries in GPCR biology. Listeners interested in GPCR drug discovery, functional assay development, or fluorescence-based assays in behavioral research are encouraged to explore more episodes of the Dr. GPCR Podcast and consider the expanded content on Dr. GPCR University . Why This Matters? How GPCR-mediated neuropeptide signaling dictates mosquito attraction to humans, directly impacting disease transmission. Why the study of conserved receptor pathways enables the development of broadly effective, species-independent vector control strategies. What functional and behavioral assays in mosquitoes reveal about the underlying diversity of GPCR signaling across taxa. How dissecting receptor function in non-neuronal tissues uncovers new parallels to human gut-brain communication. Who Should Listen? This episode is essential for anyone advancing GPCR-targeted research in physiological or behavioral contexts. If you often translate receptor mechanism findings from model organisms to human systems. If you want to expand high-throughput or fluorescence-based assay strategies to non-traditional models. If you are interested in how behavioral outcomes emerge from cell-type-specific GPCR expression and signaling dynamics. If you are considering novel ways to connect molecular pharmacology with organismal phenotype, especially in vector biology or neurobiology. About Laura Duvall Laura Duvall trained in biochemistry and behavioral biology at the University of Pennsylvania. During her PhD with Paul Taghert at Washington University in St. Louis, she investigated neuropeptide control of circadian behaviors in Drosophila , with a specific focus on how GPCR family members orchestrate brain clock cell function. As a postdoctoral researcher in Leslie Vosshall’s laboratory at Rockefeller University, Dr. Duvall pivoted to the Aedes aegypti mosquito, focusing on the molecular regulation of feeding and reproductive behaviors via neuropeptidergic GPCR signaling. In 2019, Dr. Duvall established her laboratory at Columbia University, where she is part of the Department of Biological Sciences and the Zuckerman Institute. Recognized with the Beckman Young Investigator Award, the Klingenstein-Simons Fellowship in Neuroscience, and a Pew Scholarship, she continues to drive efforts to decode how evolutionarily conserved GPCR pathways modulate complex behavioral outcomes. Her research is consistently motivated by uncovering new biological connections that can bridge basic and translational science. Guest on The Web LinkedI n Google Scholar Lab 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 >>