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<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners 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 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners 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 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

GPCR scientist Ben Clements shares how positive allosteric modulators could transform opioid therapy by boosting efficacy and reducing side effects. << Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners When to Walk, When to Run: Lessons from the GPCR Trenches with Dr. Ben Clements 1. The Power of Inclusion in the GPCR Field This episode kicks off with a celebration of early-career scientists. Host Dr. Yamina Berchiche emphasizes the importance of diverse voices in the GPCR community: “It’s been a very difficult path to get more early-career scientists on the podcast. But it’s important to make your voice heard.” Benjamin Clements , a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Michigan, joins the conversation as a rising voice in GPCR pharmacology. His journey highlights the transition from general drug development to a deep dive into G protein-coupled receptors. 2. From Aspirations to Application: Ben’s Path into Science Ben shares his winding yet deliberate entry into science. Initially driven by a general passion for biology and a childhood dream of being an astronaut, he began with intestinal choline transport research at UNC. The realization that basic science could impact real patients was transformative. “It’s not just raw science — this can help someone at the end of the day.” – Ben Clements His pivot into neuroscience and pharmacology during grad school at the University of Minnesota laid the groundwork for his current work in GPCR pharmacology. 3. GPCRs and the Opioid Crisis: A New Pharmacological Frontier Now at the University of Michigan, Ben focuses on positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) targeting opioid receptors. The goal: maximize analgesia while minimizing side effects . “We’re enhancing the powerful pain-relieving effects of opioids while limiting respiratory depression, constipation, and abuse liability.” He is particularly excited by the novel application of PAMs in chronic and neuropathic pain models , including the neuroma model , which is typically opioid-insensitive. 4. Allosteric Modulation: The New Frontier of GPCR Drug Discovery Ben reflects on the emerging potential of allosteric modulation in GPCRs — a field that has lagged behind ion channels in clinical applications. “Allosteric modulation in GPCRs is so novel and so exciting. There’s so much availability, so much we don’t know yet.” By working with distinct chemical scaffolds like thiazolidines and xanthinediones, Ben is helping define how structurally different PAMs may act on similar receptor sites. 5. Scientific Rigor: The Value of ‘Old School’ Pharmacology Despite the availability of modern tools, Ben stresses the enduring value of classical methods like GTPγS assays , radioligand binding , and basic PK/PD models . “It doesn’t matter how many cool, fun tools you have. If you don’t understand the math that underlies an allosteric modulator, you won’t understand what’s happening.” This mindset keeps his science grounded, reproducible, and rooted in fundamentals. 6. Mentorship, Team Culture, and the Joy of Science Science is serious work, but Ben believes fun and collaboration fuel great outcomes. At Michigan, his lab balances rigor with light-hearted engagement — like daily squirrel trivia on their whiteboard. “Science is fun. We produce great data, but we also joke around. That’s how we work best.” Strong mentorship, open communication, and peer learning — especially from undergraduate trainees — shape his development as both a scientist and future educator. 7. Translating Discovery into Therapy: Bench to Bedside Vision Ben’s work seeks to merge in vitro mechanistic data with in vivo efficacy , guiding medicinal chemists toward creating druggable PAMs . “The goal is to smash all the amazing biology together and make a drug.” Using site-directed mutagenesis and pharmacological synergy assays , his team aims to understand how and where these compounds interact with the receptor, paving the way for structure-based drug design . 8. Structural Biology Roadblocks: The Cryo-EM Challenge One bottleneck in Ben’s work is visualizing binding sites of PAMs via cryo-EM , due to low compound potency and membrane-embedded binding pockets. “Our compounds don’t bind well enough to be seen clearly. That’s a real challenge with allosterics.” Still, by collaborating with structural biology teams and combining cryo-EM with NMR , his lab is narrowing down potential binding regions. 9. Lessons in Confidence, Collaboration, and Aha Moments From asserting himself as an undergrad to mastering unique techniques in grad school, Ben has accumulated key “aha” moments that shaped his confidence: Standing up to big names when safety was compromised. Realizing his technical skills were indispensable to the team. Discovering breakthrough results in neuroma pain models via a spontaneous collaboration. “We found something incredible — a tenfold shift in the methadone dose-response with our PAM.” 10. Advice for Junior Scientists: Read, Rest, Run Ben closes with wisdom for early-career researchers: “Academia is about knowing when to walk and when to run.” – Advice from Kelsey Flepsen He advocates: Reading one paper a day. Taking care of yourself when possible. Pushing hard when deadlines or breakthroughs demand it. “Your brain’s not a machine. Let it rest. That’s when the best ideas come — in the shower or on a walk.” Summary made with AI ________ Key Takeaway Episode 166 with Ben Clements is a deep dive into the pharmacological potential of GPCRs , the power of mentorship, and the mindset required to thrive in science. With clarity, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit, Ben reminds us that impactful science isn’t just about technology — it’s about people, persistence, and timing. “Science is all about knowing when to walk and knowing when to run.” Keyword Cloud GPCR research community , Dr. GPCR ecosystem , GPCR online course , GPCR scientist network , GPCR drug discovery , GPCR training program , G protein-coupled receptors , GPCR podcast , GPCR webinar series , GPCR data platform Summary created by AI About Ben Clements Dr. Ben M Clements is a behavioral pharmacologist who uses in vitro and in vivo models to discover and characterize novel treatments for chronic pain and opioid use disorder. He received his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutics from the University of Minnesota in 2022, studying the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of NMDA receptor antagonists. At the University of Michigan, Ben focuses on determining the mechanisms of action of a series of positive allosteric modulators of the mu-opioid receptor. This project involves molecular pharmacology in cell models to determine binding sites and mechanisms of allostery, as well as efficacy studies in mouse and rat models of acute and chronic pain. Dr. Clements' work is primarily focused on translational developments of small molecule therapeutics, and intends to apply these ideas to an independent academic laboratory. In addition, he plans to continue studying how neuromodulators, both exogenous and endogenous, can influence cellular activity, physiological behaviors, and human health. Ben Clements on the web University of Michigan X Google Scholar LinkedIn 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Discover how GPR65 reshapes our understanding of GPCR signaling and its role in cancer, with Dr. Ian Chronis on the Dr. GPCR podcast. << Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners Signals, pH, and Discovery : Cracking GPCR Mysteries with Dr. Ian Chronis In this episode, we welcome Dr. Ian Chronis, a recent Ph.D. graduate preparing to begin his postdoctoral work at the University of Michigan. Host Yamina Berchiche sets a welcoming tone as they dive into Ian’s unique academic journey—from early interests in medicine to his pivot toward pharmacology and GPCR research. His story offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the path from student to scientist. Ian discusses how his experiences at the University of Chicago and the University of Michigan shaped his scientific curiosity, particularly around G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) . His research centers on the beta-2 adrenergic receptor and GPR65 , a proton-sensing receptor with promising implications in cancer biology. He shares fascinating findings from his work on GPR65 , highlighting its unusual constitutive internalization and its ability to signal from acidic endosomes. This dual functionality—environmental sensing and compartment-specific signaling—offers a new layer of complexity in GPCR behavior. Yamina underscores the therapeutic potential of GPR65, especially in the context of cancer immunotherapy, and how understanding receptor activity in acidic microenvironments could unlock new therapeutic strategies. Throughout the episode, Ian reflects on the value of a supportive lab culture , the need for better experimental tools in GPCR signaling , and the importance of engaging with the broader GPCR research community to drive innovation. The conversation wraps with a playful exchange about possible podcast titles, with Yamina suggesting "Ancient Greek Chemistry and GPCRs"—a nod to Ian’s heritage and the wide-ranging themes covered. This episode is both educational and inspiring, offering a behind-the-scenes look at a rising scientist’s journey in the ever-evolving world of GPCR research. Summary created by AI About Ian Chronis I recently finished my PhD in the lab of Dr. Manoj Puthenveedu at the University of Michigan, where I am now working as a postdoc. My research has looked at the trafficking and signaling of adrenergic and proton-sensing receptors, with specific focus on identifying novel regulatory proteins governing their function. Ian Chronis on the web LinkedIn 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners 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 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners Dr. Yamina Berchiche About this episode In this Episode 0 of the brand new Dr. GPCR podcast , your host and founder, Dr. Yamina Berchiche introduces the very first podcast dedicated to GPCRs researcher and their work. This podcast is part of the Dr. GPCR Ecosystem, with the goal is to bring together GPCR scientists, biotech, and pharma leaders as well as suppliers working on GPCRs by providing opportunities to connect, share, form trusting partnerships, grow, and thrive together to accelerate GPCR drug discovery and improve human health. Dr. Yamina Berchiche on the web - Website - LinkedIn - PubMed - Twitter - Facebook - Dr. GPCR Ecosystem 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners Irfan Dhanidina, Dr. Kathleen Caron and Dr. Lauren Slosky About Irfan Dhanidina "My interest in oncology research led me to pursue a BSc in Biology & Economics from Carleton University, and an MSc in Biotechnology at McGill. However, after insightful experiences in academic, hospital, and industry labs, I decided to pursue a role in business development. In my role at Orion Biotechnology, I work at the intersection of science and business, which includes target selection, preclinical strategy and business development. With respect to GPCRs, I'm particularly interested in peptide/small protein receptors and the mechanisms that facilitate their role in various indications. To that end, I'm grateful to be working alongside the very talented team at Orion who translate important GPCR research into novel therapies for patients. " Irfan Dhanidina on the web LinkedIn The Org DIBIZ Dr. GPCR About Dr. Kathleen Caron " "Kathleen M. Caron, Ph.D. is the Frederik L. Eldridge Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Cell Biology & Physiology at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill—a large, interdisciplinary basic science department consistently ranked in the Top 5 in the Nation in NIH funding. Dr. Caron received a BS in Biology and BA in Philosophy at Emory University and a PhD at Duke University while training with Dr. Keith Parker to elucidate the role of steroidogenesis in regulating sexual determination and adrenal and gonadal development using genetic mouse models. She pursued postdoctoral training with Nobel Laureate Dr. Oliver Smithies at UNC-CH, where she was the first to discover the essential role of adrenomedullin peptide for embryonic survival. With a special emphasis on G protein coupled receptors and receptor activity modifying proteins in vascular biology, the Caron laboratory has gained valuable insights into the genetic basis and pathophysiology of lymphatic vascular disease, preeclampsia and sex-dependent cardiovascular disease. Dr. Caron has received numerous awards including a Burroughs Wellcome Fund Career Award in the Biomedical Sciences, an Established Investigator Award and an Innovator Award from the American Heart Association, a Jefferson Pilot Award in Biomedical Sciences and a UNC-CH Mentoring Award. She currently serves as Associate Editor of Physiological Reviews; the #1 ranked journal in Physiology (IF 46.5). Dr. Caron is also past Associate Editor at JCI and served as the inaugural Associate Editor at ACS-Pharmacology and Translational Science. Dr. Caron currently holds multiple scientific advisory roles in academia, industry and the National Institutes of Health." " Dr. Kathleen Caron on the web UNC-Chapel Hill Department of Cell Biology and Physiology UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Twitter Google Scholar ORCID ResearchGate Dr. GPCR About Dr. Lauren 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 Slosky on the web University of Minnesota Department Page Twitter LinkedIn Google Scholar PubMed Research Gate Dr. GPCR 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Principles of Pharmacology in Drug Discovery II Dr. Terry Kenakin Get Started Premium Members benefits: - Subscribe and save 25% on every GPCR Course - Early-bird access - Recordings will be available < Back to GPCR courses Watch recording Your Instructor Dr. Terry Kenakin

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Genetic Deletion of Atypical VGLUT3 Rescues Huntington’s Disease Phenotype and Neurodegeneration in zQ175 Mice Date & Time Friday, November 3rd / 2:10 PM About Karim Ibrahim "A postdoctoral researcher, interested in studying G-protein coupled receptors and their role in neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's and Huntington's diseases." Karim Ibrahim on the web X (Twitter) Google Scholar Dr. GPCR Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Illuminating Functional Selectivity and Allosterism at GPCRs. Date & Time Saturday, November 4th / 11:30 AM Abstract Coming Soon About Stéphane Laporte "Dr. Stéphane Laporte is a Professor of Medicine, and the Director of Research of the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism at McGill University. He is also an Associate Leader of the Experimental Therapeutics and Metabolism Program and the Director of the Molecular Imaging Platform at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC). He is a member of the Executive Committee of the Réseau québécois de recherche sur les médicaments. He has received many awards, including a Canada Research Chair, FRSQ scholarships and the CDA/CSEM/Merck Frosst Young Investigator award. His expertise is in molecular pharmacology and his research program focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) responses, a class of receptors involved in many, if not all, physiological responses, with the ultimate goal of improving drug action. He has developed innovative methods for in-cellulo measurement of protein-protein interactions, receptor trafficking and signalling, useful for drug discovery programs. His research program also studies the allosteric, biased signalling regulation of GPCR and has contributed to the validation of small molecules that block myometrial contraction in pre-term birth. He has contributed to the generation of many intellectual property agreements and patents, and published his findings in high-impact journals. The Canadian Institutes for Health Research and March of Dimes currently support his research." Stéphane Laporte on the web Laporte Lab McGill University LinkedIn Dr. GPCR Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners 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 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Home → Flash News → Subscribe to the Dr. GPCR Newsletter 📰 and get the latest GPCR News delivered to your inbox Unlocking the activation process of PTH1R: New computational insights into its molecular interactions bring us closer to better osteoporosis treatments! ➡️https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/receptor-activation-and-signaling/key-interaction-changes-determine-the-activation-process-of-human-parathyroid-hormone-type-1-receptor #gpcr #drgpcr Published on February 6, 2025 Category GPCR Weekly News Subscribe to the Dr. GPCR Newsletter 📰 and get the latest GPCR News delivered to your inbox Unlocking the activation process of PTH1R: New computational insights into its molecular interactions bring us closer to better osteoporosis treatments! ➡️ https:// www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/receptor-activation-and-signaling/key-interaction-changes-determine-the-activation-process-of-human-parathyroid-hormone-type-1-receptor #gpcr #drgpcr Previous Next Recent Articles

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners 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 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Home → Flash News → Ready to stand out in the GPCR world? Take advantage of a platform where you can network within your field! 🌍 Showcase your expertise by keeping your profile up-to-date on Dr. GPCR. Published on December 11, 2024 Category Dr. GPCR Profiles Ready to stand out in the GPCR world? Take advantage of a platform where you can network within your field! 🌍 Showcase your expertise by keeping your profile up-to-date on Dr. GPCR. ✳️Start today at https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/account/my-account #gpcr #drgpcr Previous Next Recent Articles

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Dinner 2 Date & Time Friday, November 3rd / 7:00 PM Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Home → Flash News → Did you know registrations are already open for all our 2025 Dr.GPCR University Courses? Check out what you can learn this year from the master, Dr. Terry Kenakin 😉and save your spot soon! Remember Premium Members get a 25% discount 🙌 ✳️Click here and start your next learning experience https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/gpcr-courses #gpcr #drgpcr Published on February 18, 2025 Category GPCR Weekly News Did you know registrations are already open for all our 2025 Dr.GPCR University Courses? Check out what you can learn this year from the master, Dr. Terry Kenakin 😉and save your spot soon! Remember Premium Members get a 25% discount 🙌 ✳️ Click here and start your next learning experience https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/gpcr-courses #gpcr #drgpcr Previous Next Recent Articles

Principles of Pharmacology in Drug Discovery I Dr. Terry Kenakin Get Started Premium Members benefits: - Subscribe and save 25% on every GPCR Course - Early-bird access - Recordings will be available < Back to GPCR courses Watch recording Your Instructor Dr. Terry Kenakin

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Regulation and role of mitochondria delta opioid receptors Date & Time Friday, November 3rd / 10:40 AM Abstract Coming Soon About Louis Gendron "Dr Louis Gendron, PhD is tenured Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmacology-Physiology at the Université de Sherbrooke. He has 20+ years of experience in in vitro and in vivo GPCR pharmacology and has published seminal papers where he used various approaches to describe the role of opioid receptors in pain and anagesia as well as to study the mechanisms involved in the cellular trafficking of the delta opioid receptor. Recently, his group reported the first in vivo GPCR interactome, revealing an important number of new potential proteins interacting with GPCRs. Dr Gendron is co-director of the FRQS-funded Quebec Pain Research Network and the Editor-in-Chief in the journal Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry." Louis Gendron on the web Université de Sherbrooke Neurosciences Sherbrooke RQRD Pubmed Google Scholar LinkedIn Twitter Dr. GPCR Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Welcome Reception and Poster Session 1 Date & Time Thursday, November 2nd / 5:30 PM Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Home → Flash News → Did you know that GPR180 helps regulate lipid metabolism and may play a role in preventing obesity? recent study shows that overexpression of GPR180 in adipose tissue improves lipid metabolism and protects against HFD-induced obesity, while its knockout worsens lipid accumulation. This finding highlights GPR180 as a potential therapeutic target for metabolic disorders! Catch up on this exciting research in the Ecosystem today! 🏆📖 You’ll need to register, but don’t worry—it’s free! ➡️https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/gpcrs-in-cardiology-endocrinology-and-taste/gpr180-reduces-adiposity-by-inhibiting-lipogenesis-and-fatty-acid-uptake-in-adipocytes #gpcr #drgpcr #metabolism #obesity Published on March 3, 2025 Category GPCR Weekly News Did you know that GPR180 helps regulate lipid metabolism and may play a role in preventing obesity? recent study shows that overexpression of GPR180 in adipose tissue improves lipid metabolism and protects against HFD-induced obesity , while its knockout worsens lipid accumulation . This finding highlights GPR180 as a potential therapeutic target for metabolic disorders! Catch up on this exciting research in the Ecosystem today! 🏆📖 You’ll need to register, but don’t worry—it’s free ! ➡️ https:// www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/gpcrs-in-cardiology-endocrinology-and-taste/gpr180-reduces-adiposity-by-inhibiting-lipogenesis-and-fatty-acid-uptake-in-adipocytes #gpcr #drgpcr #metabolism #obesity Previous Next Recent Articles

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Check In Date & Time Thursday, November 2nd / 4:00 PM Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Trainee Symposium I Date & Time Thursday, November 2nd / 1:45 PM - 2:45 PM Title: Virion Display to Discover a Novel Ligand of the Orphan GPCR GPRC5B and its Role in Obesity About Eric Johansen "I will be a 6th year Ph.D student in the chemical biology interface program at Johns Hopkins University. My project is investigating a new protein ligand for a GPCR and its potential role in obesity. My interests in research are primarily directed towards methods that study GPCRs and GPCR signaling, as well as drug discovery and design." Eric Johansen on the web Johns Hopkins University Dr. GPCR Title: Modeling Cardiac Fibrosis in a Dish: Combining hIPSC-Derived Fibroblasts and FRET Biosensors to Unravel GPCR-Mediated Cardiac Fibrosis Activation in Dilated Cardiomyopathy About Grace Mazarura "I am a graduate student in the Hébert Lab. In my current research project I use iPSC-derived cardiac fibroblasts to examine cellular signaling in the fibrotic response, a key driver of dilated cardiomyopathy." Grace Mazarura on the web McGill University Dr. GPCR Title: Characterization of Novel Opioid-Neurotensin Bifunctional Ligands Designed to Target Pain Management About Émile Breault "Emile Breault is undertaking his master's degree in pharmacology at the university of Sherbrooke under the supervision of Prof. Sarret. He recently received his BSc in pharmacology from the University of Sherbrooke in 2023. During his graduate studies, Emile is interested in characterizing novel G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) ligands for the treatment of chronic pain but also in deciphering cellular signaling pathways associated with the physiological effects observed in vivo of such GPCRs." Émile Breault on the web Google Scholar ResearchGate Dr. GPCR Title: Synapse-Associated Protein 102 and Post-Synaptic Density 95 Differentially Shape Dopamine D1 Receptor Signaling About Bassam Albraidy "My thesis focus on studying the interaction of dopamine D1 receptors scaffolding proteins synapse-associated protein 102 and post-synaptic density 95, and the impact of these complexes in D1R-mediated signaling and trafficking mechanisms." Bassam Albraidy on the web X (Twitter) LinkedIn Dr. GPCR Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Unveiling Non-Canonical Functions for Gαq Signaling Pathways Date & Time Friday, November 3rd / 11:55 AM About Catalina Ribas " Dr. Catalina Ribas, is currently an Associate Professor at the University Autonomous of Madrid (UAM) and she has been Academic Secretary of Molecular Biology Department for several years. The research group led by Dr. Catalina Ribas, located in the Centro de Biología Molecular “Severo Ochoa” (UAM/CSIC) and belongs also to the Health Research Institute La Princesa, has extensive experience in the field of GPCR. Dr. Catalina Ribas made a postdoctoral stay in the laboratory of Dr. SM. Lanier in the MUSC (USA). During this period and her doctoral thesis, she has deepened the regulatory mechanisms of GPCR signaling. In her postdoctoral period, she has participated in the identification and characterization of proteins that act at the level of G proteins and which are part of a multimolecular signaling complex (AGS, de “Activators of G-protein signaling). In Spain, Dr. Ribas continued working on the regulation of GPCR. The group of Dr. Ribas has characterized the existence of a new signaling pathway with a relevant role in cardiac hypertrophy led by a new Gαq interactome. Recently, Dr. Ribas' group has described a new interaction region in a cellular protein that has turned out to be very relevant in the control of the cellular process known as autophagy. These results have been published in the journal Nature Communications (12 (1):4540, 2021) with the title "Gαq controls autophagy via modulation of the mTORC1 signaling hub". Furthermore, Dr. Ribas has also described a new protective role of G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2), a known regulator of Gq-GPCR signaling in HNSCC tumor progression (International Journal of Cancer, 2020). " Catalina Ribas on the web Severo Ochoa Molecular Biology Center X (Twitter) Dr. GPCR Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Welcome Remarks Date & Time Thursday, November 2nd / 1:30 PM Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners Developing new tools to uncover GPCR signaling patterns with Remi Janicot About Remi Janicot I was born in Paris (France) and grew up in Europe until I was 18. After graduating high school, I moved to America to pursue my passion for basketball while continuing high level studies. I played collegiate basketball and earned my bachelor’s at Ursinus College, a small school around Philadelphia where I graduated from in 2018. After that, I worked at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore as a research assistant investigating mechanisms and treatments for pediatric epilepsy. With my background in neuroscience, the lab of Dr. Mikel Garcia-Marcos seemed like a good fit as GPCRs are integral to the functioning of the nervous system (and much more). My particular projects revolve around developing new tools to study GPCR activity in ways that were not previously possible. This research has led to a first-author Cell article on the development of a new biosensor platform called ONE-GO biosensors. Overall, the lab works on diverse models and diseases, and has developed a wide array of tools to dissect GPCR/G protein signaling which I would be happy to discuss. Remi Janicot on the web Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Retreat 2023 About Program Registration Logo Contest Committee Sponsors GPCR Retreat Program < Back to schedule Biochemical Mechanisms Underlying Location Bias in GPCR Signaling Date & Time Saturday, November 4th / 8:40 AM Abstract Coming Soon About Sudarshan Rajagopal "Dr. Sudarshan Rajagopal is a physician-scientist and is currently an Associate Professor of Medicine and Biochemistry at Duke University School of Medicine. He obtained his B.S. in Chemistry from The University of Chicago in 1998 and subsequently enrolled in the Medical Scientist Training Program at The University of Chicago. During his doctoral work in the lab of Prof. Keith Moffat, he studied the structural mechanisms of bacterial photoreceptors using time-resolved Laue crystallography. He was awarded his PhD in 2004 and his MD in 2006. He then joined the Internal Medicine Residency training program at Duke University Medical Center. During his Cardiology fellowship, he trained in the lab of Dr. Robert J. Lefkowitz, where his research focused on biased agonism, with the development of approaches to quantify ligand bias and the identification of ACKR3 as an endogenously beta-arrestin-biased receptor. After completing his training, he joined the faculty at Duke, with a focus on the mechanisms underlying biased agonism at GPCRs and its contribution inflammation and cardiovascular disease. His group and others have shown that many of these ligands act as biased agonists for the same receptor. His lab is also interested in identifying novel signal transduction mechanisms of GPCRs, such as the formation of complexes between G proteins and beta-arrestins. His clinical focus is on pulmonary arterial hypertension, a disease of the pulmonary arterioles that causes right heart failure, and he serves as co-director of the Duke Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center." Sudarshan Rajagopal on the web The Rajagopal Lab Google Scholar Pubmed LinkedIn Dr. GPCR Previous Event Next Event Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec Great Lakes GPCR Retreat and Club des Récepteurs à Sept Domaines Transmembranaires du Québec 22nd GPCR Retreat Sponsored by

Full Agenda Adhesion GPCR workshop 2024 CINVESTAV, Mexico City, Mexico October 23-25 Download PDF Program HERE < Back to Full Agenda Session VI AGPCRs shaping the nervous system ADGRCs in glutamatergic synapse formation, maintenance and degeneration Yimin Zou Antibody-drug conjugates targeting CD97 in glioblastoma Dimitris Placantonakis Adhesion G protein-coupled receptor latrophilin-3 (ADGRL3) modulation of dopaminergic neurotransmission Nicole Perry-Hauser ADGRCs in glutamatergic synapse formation, maintenance and degeneration Yimin Zou Abstract "ADGRCs (Celsr1-3) are components of the conserved planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway, which establishes and maintains cell and tissue polarity along the tissue plane in all tissues. Work from our lab showed that the PCP components, including ADGRC2 and ADGRC3, are localized in the developing and adult synapses and interact with synaptic scaffold proteins and glutamate receptors and are responsible for the formation and stability of the vast majority of glutamatergic synapses in the mammalian brain. Initial impairment of synaptic functions, which occurs early in Alzheimer’s disease, and subsequent massive loss of synapses are closely correlated with the decline of cognitive function. We showed that oligomeric Aβ binds to ADGRC3 on the same domain required for the interaction with Frizzled3, weakens their interaction and assists Vangl2 in disassembling synapses. Conditionally knocking out Ryk, required for Vangl2 function, protected synapses and preserved cognitive function in a mouse model for Alzheimer’s. Massive synapse loss in the prefrontal cortex is a hallmark of massive depressive disorder. Injection of low-dose ketamine, an antidepressant, can lead to acute (in several hours) and sustained (up to several weeks) antidepressive effects. Restoration of synaptic connections induced by low-dose ketamine has been found associated with the sustained antidepressive effects. We showed that ADGRC2 and ADGRC3 are required for the restoration of glutamatergic synapses in prefrontal cortical neurons of chronically stressed animals and their behavioral remission induced by low-dose ketamine. I will also present ongoing work on the signaling mechanisms of how ADGRCs regulate synapse formation, maintenance and plasticity." About Yimin Zou "I received Ph.D from University of California at Davis and San Diego in 1995 and then postdoctoral training from University of California, San Francisco in 2000. I was an assistant and then associate professor with tenure at the University of Chicago from 2000 to 2006 and moved to University of California San Diego as an Associate Professor in 2006. I became full professor in 2011 and Vice Chair of the Neurobiology Department at UC San Diego in 2012. I served as the Chair of the Neurobiology Department at UC San Diego from 2014 to 2017. My research focus is the mechanisms of neural circuit development, function and disease." Yimin Zou on the web UC San Diego Antibody-drug conjugates targeting CD97 in glioblastoma Dimitris Placantonakis Abstract "Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain malignancy. Several adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) have recently been shown to play critical roles in GBM biology. We showed that CD97 (ADGRE5), in particular, drives tumor growth via effects on GBM stem cell self-renewal and metabolism, but also has a therapeutically favorable expression pattern: it is highly expressed in all GBM specimens, but is absent from healthy brain tissue. To exploit this expression profile, we have developed antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) targeting CD97, by screening a synthetic human antibody library. We initially tested the ADC using in vitro WST-8 viability assays in human GBM cell lines and cell types that lack CD97. We observed significantly lower LD50 values in patient-derived and U87 GBM cell cultures vs. CD97-lacking cells. We also found significantly lower LD50 values when treating human GBM cells with the ADC (0.6788 nM), as compared to control ADC targeting RSV glycoprotein F (19.964 nM). In vivo intratumoral administration of the ADC in patient-derived GBM xenografts in the brain of immunodeficient mice resulted in significant reduction of tumor growth and prolongation of survival of host mice. Collectively, these data suggest that ADCs targeting CD97 impair tumor growth in preclinical GBM models and are promising candidates for future clinical trials." Authors & Affiliations "Groff, Karenna; Donaldson, Hayley; Anderson, Sebastian; Pitti, Kiran; Wang, Shuai; Park, Christopher; Hattori, Takamitsu; Koide, Shohei; Placantonakis, Dimitris New York University Grossman School of Medicine" About Dimitris Placantonakis "Dimitris Placantonakis is a neurosurgeon-scientist at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York. As a clinician, he specializes in surgical treatment of brain tumors. His laboratory studies oncogenesis in glioblastoma, the most common brain malignancy, and chromatin organization in human neural development. His group has been particularly interested in the role adhesion GPCRs play in glioblastoma biology and their therapeutic targeting." Dimitris Placantonakis on the web Placantonakis Lab Google Scholar LinkedIn Adhesion G protein-coupled receptor latrophilin-3 (ADGRL3) modulation of dopaminergic neurotransmission Nicole Perry-Hauser Abstract Only available for AGPCR 24 Attendees Authors & Affiliations "Nicole A. Perry-Hauser1,2, Arturo Torres Herraez1,2, Dan Lowes1,2, Ying Zhu1,2, Siham Boumhaouad1,3, Eugene V. Mosharov1,2,4, David Sulzer1,2,4, Christoph Kellendonk1,2, and Jonathan A. Javitch1,2 1Departments of Psychiatry and Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032; 2Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032; 3 Physiology and Physiopathology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat 1014, Morocco; 4Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032" About Nicole Perry-Hauser "I am an associate research scientist endeavoring to build a productive, independent scientific research career in adhesion G protein-coupled receptor (aGPCR) biology. My long-term research interests involve resolving signaling pathways downstream of aGPCRs and establishing how/if these receptors’ adhesive properties influence signaling events, and in turn whether signaling impacts synapse formation and neuronal wiring. I initially became interested in GPCR signal transduction during my graduate training in the Department of Pharmacology at Vanderbilt University where I studied under the co-mentorship of Dr. Vsevolod V. Gurevich and Dr. Tina M. Iverson. I then pursued a postdoctoral research position under the mentorship of Dr. Jonathan A. Javitch in the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University Irving Medical Center." Nicole Perry-Hauser on the web LinkedIn Research Gate Pubmed Dr. GPCR < Previous Session Next Session >

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners Dr. JoAnn Trejo About Dr. JoAnn Trejo Dr. JoAnn Trejo earned her Ph.D. at UC San Diego. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at UC San Francisco under the guidance of Professor Shaun Coughlin where she worked on the newly discovered protease-activated GPCRs. Dr. Trejo joined the faculty in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of North Carolina in 2000 and then moved to UC San Diego School Medicine, Department of Pharmacology in 2008, where she quickly rose through the ranks to tenured professor in 2012. In 2014, she was appointed Vice-Chair of the Department of Pharmacology. The long-term goal of Dr. Trejo’s research program is to gain a thorough and mechanistic understanding of processes that control cell signaling by protease-activated receptors (PARs) and the impact on vascular inflammation and cancer progression. PARs are GPCRs that are activated through an atypical irreversible proteolytic mechanism. The precise control of PAR signaling is critical for proper temporal and spatial dynamics of signaling and appropriate cellular responses. Discovering new aspects of PAR signaling is important for increasing the fundamental knowledge of GPCR biology and for the identification of drug targets and future drug development. Dr. Trejo’s research has focused on PAR1, which has important functions in hemostasis, thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer and is an important drug target. She has made numerous important discoveries related to the mechanisms that control PAR1 signaling and closely related family members and published extensively on this topic. Dr. Trejo has been continuously funded by the NIH for >20 years and was a recipient of the prestigious American Heart Association Established Investigator Award. Her laboratory is the recognized expert on protease-activated receptors, particularly PAR1, and over the years she has discovered novel aspects of GPCR biology, acquired critical expertise, and rigorous approaches to examine PAR1 function using human cultured cells and mouse models. Dr. Trejo has presented her studies at 52 national/international meetings and 66 academic seminars across the U.S. Dr. JoAnn Trejo on the web UC San Diego Trejo Lab Wikipedia LinkedIn Google Scholar Orcid Twitter UC San Diego School of Medicine Researchgate Dr. GPCR Ecosystem 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

<< Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners 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 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>

Catherine Demery shares how she found clarity and purpose in academic opioid research. From her early doubts to designing preclinical models of fentanyl and xylazine overdose, she reflects on staying in academia, building translational experiments, and using real-world data to drive impactful science in the GPCR research community. << Back to podcast list Dr. GPCR Podcast Strategic Partners Xylazine, Fentanyl, and the Fight for Breath with Catherine Demery Two drugs. Two different mechanisms. One deadly outcome. Fentanyl and xylazine are pushing the opioid crisis into dangerous new territory, and Catherine Demery is on the front lines of the science trying to stop it. In this gripping conversation, Catherine, a PhD candidate at the University of Michigan, shares how personal loss and an unconventional career path—industry chemist, NIH researcher, and now GPCR pharmacologist—led her to investigate how these drugs shut down breathing in different ways. Her research combines cutting-edge GPCR signaling studies with real-time public health data from Michigan’s Red Project, revealing how fentanyl slows inhalation, xylazine prolongs exhalation, and together they drop heart rate to dangerous lows. And while users aren’t asking for xylazine, dealers are lacing it into the supply—driving overdose deaths higher. Why This Matters Fentanyl : Potent synthetic opioid that decreases inhalation rate. Xylazine : Veterinary sedative that prolongs exhalation and induces bradycardia—acting through alpha-2 adrenergic, not opioid, receptors. The Combo : Not just additive—lethal. Street Data : Xylazine-laced fentanyl in Michigan has jumped 30–60% in recent years. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How industry lab experience builds the discipline needed for academic research. Why xylazine is an emerging overdose threat and how it differs mechanistically from opioids. The methods used to measure respiratory depression in live models. How loss and lived experience can sharpen scientific focus. The role of public health programs in informing lab research. How GPCR pharmacology connects molecular insights to real-world interventions. Who Should Listen This episode is especially relevant for: GPCR drug discovery scientists Respiratory pharmacologists Addiction researchers Public health professionals Early-career scientists navigating non-linear paths About Catherine Demery Catherine Demery didn’t set out to be on the front lines of the opioid crisis. After earning her undergraduate degree in biochemistry from the University of Michigan, she deferred pharmacy school, unsure if that path felt right. Instead, she went hands-on—working as an analytical chemist in a GLP/GMP-regulated CRO, where precision and discipline became second nature. That led her to a master’s in pharmacogenomics at Manchester University, igniting her fascination with how genetics and drugs interact. Her next stop: the NIH, studying the immunology of pregnancy. But loss has a way of sharpening focus—friends lost to overdose brought the opioid epidemic into painful clarity. Catherine decided to act where she could make the biggest difference: in the lab. Today, as a PhD candidate in the labs of Dr. John Traynor and Dr. Jessica Anand at the University of Michigan, Catherine investigates how fentanyl and xylazine shut down breathing through different mechanisms—work that blends receptor pharmacology, preclinical models, and public health data to tackle one of the most urgent challenges in addiction science. Catherine Demery on the web LinkedIn Google Scholar University of Michigan 🎧 Listen now and see how one scientist is turning molecules into a mission, bridging the gap between receptor pharmacology and the urgent fight to save lives in the opioid epidemic. __________ Keyword Cloud GPCR research community , Dr. GPCR ecosystem , GPCR training program , GPCR podcast , opioid pharmacology , xylazine research , mu opioid receptor , pharmacogenomics , fentanyl epidemic , preclinical pharmacology 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 Recent Podcast Articles How GPCR Collaboration Built an Innovation Engine From Pipettes to Platforms: The Evolution of GPCR Research How GPCR Spatial Signaling Sparked a Scientific Journey Thanks for listening to this podcast episode Follow us on your favorite Podcast Player << Previous Podcast Episode Next Podcast Episode >>