Programs Details

Program Details

Tentative Schedule

 

Reference the ASPET mobile app for final program.

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Thursday, May 16

2:30 pm – 4:30 pm | Opening General Session

At ASPET’s first session of our newly designed Annual Meeting, you will receive a warm welcome to your home for pharmacology.  Learn what’s been planned for our weekend together, celebrate our history and what’s ahead for the Society, meet someone new, find an old friend and engage in a spirited discussion.

Featuring a keynote by Marie A. Bernard, MD, NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity*

Diverse Perspectives in Science: Why and How?

Learn why diversity in science is important in fostering creativity and innovation. Gain insight into NIH's people-centric and data-driven efforts to increase diverse voices and equity in science. Dr. Bernard will share the conceptual framework and data underlying NIH’s pursuit of diverse perspectives. She will also describe three major initiatives to advance diverse perspectives: the NIH DEIA Strategic Plan, Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD), and the NIH UNITE initiative. (Disclaimer: No endorsement of ASPET, their programs or services, by NIH is intended.)

4:30 pm – 5:00 pm | Break
5:00 pm – 5:30 pm | Daily Datablitz

Experience the daily ASPET datablitz, a rapid-fire oral presentation of research. Each day 10 poster presenters will give three-minute short talks in the poster hall. These brief snippets of research are an introduction to their full presentations that will take place at their poster boards afterwards. You won’t want to miss this fast-paced overview.

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Poster Presentations and Mixer

Enjoy a drink and snacks while exploring the latest science or presenting it yourself! Posters are grouped by divisional topic area and every night includes student and postdoc finalists competing for poster awards. Hear their presentations and discuss the latest research advances.

7:30 pm – 10:00 pm | Opening Event at the International Spy Museum

Embark with ASPET on an espionage adventure at the International Spy Museum in DC! Test your spy skills and explore the tradecraft through the stories of individuals and their missions, tools, and techniques. The exhibits will be open exclusively for ASPET attendees as well as the top floor ballroom for post-exhibit mingling and snacks. Immerse yourself in the interactive exhibits, reconnect with old allies, and forge new connections. As we kick off our long weekend dedicated to pharmacology, join us for an unforgettable blend of intrigue, knowledge, and camaraderie!

Pre-conference programming
  • Wed, May 15 | Capitol Hill Day (8:00 am)
  • Thurs, May 16 | Volunteering at DC Central Kitchen (8:00 am)
  • Advocacy for Science Workshop (10:00 am)
  • Tourist Activities (times vary)

Friday, May 17, 2024

8:00 am – 9:00 am | Business Meeting and Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast while learning about the latest updates on ASPET activities and initiatives.

9:00 am – 10:00 am | Government Leadership Panel on the Cancer Moonshot Initiative

Government Leadership Panel on the Cancer Moonshot Initiative

Featuring leaders from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), National Cancer Institute (NCI), the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), this panel will discuss the critical work occurring in various parts of the federal government focused on the Cancer Moonshot Initiative. Moderated by Julie Lade, PhD, Scientific Associate Director with Amgen, panelists will share how their agency has contributed to the fight against cancer, what their future initiatives in this area will focus on to drive progress across the cancer journey and how their work will impact the field of pharmacology.

Moderator: Julie Lade, PhD - Amgen

10:00 am – 10:30 am | Break

Enjoy a cup of coffee while learning about the unique products and services offered by our exhibitors.

10:30 am – 12:00 pm | Concurrent Sessions
Purinergic Signaling in the Nervous System

The purinergic receptors (adenosine, P2X and P2Y) are implicated in conditions of the nervous and immune systems. Adenosine is an endogenous agent for suppressing seizures, ischemic damage and pain while ATP and other nucleotides often act as DAMPs and are proinflammatory. These receptors and the enzymes that regulate endogenous activators have numerous definitive tool compounds as well as druglike clinical molecules. For example, adenosine agonists and P2Y receptor antagonists are efficacious in models of pain, cerebral ischemia and epilepsy. P2X7 receptor antagonists reduce depression. Recently developed highly selective or biased modulators provide new opportunities for drug development.

CHAIRS

  • Kenneth Jacobson

SPEAKERS

  • Purinergic Signaling Modulators for Treating CNS Disorders
    Kenneth Jacobson - NIDDK/NIH
  • Endogenous Antiseizure Adenosine: A New Role for Synthetic Analogues
    Ana M. Sebastiao - University of Lisbon
  • Role of P2X7 Ion Channel in Neuroinflammation
    Anindya Bhattacharya - Switch Therapeutics
  • Unexplored Roles of the P2Y14 Receptor in Neuropathic Pain States
    Timothy Doyle - Saint Louis Univ Sch of Medicine
S-acylation as a Regulator of Protein Function in Health and Disease

The last two decades have led to an explosion of information and increased understanding of protein S-acylation, a reversible posttranslational modification (PTM) of proteins with fatty acids at cysteine residues. Advances in mass spectrometry and chemical biology have uncovered a human palmitoylproteome of several thousand proteins. This dynamic PTM is installed by S-acyltransferases and erased by protein acyl thioesterases. Its functional importance in a variety of physiological settings has been uncovered and revealed significant changes in S-acylation patterns under pathological conditions. Hence there is growing interest in the S-acylating and deacylating enzymes as pharmacologic targets.

CHAIRS

  • Maurine E. Linder and Evgeni Ponimaskin

SPEAKERS


  • Structural Approaches to Understanding the Mechanism of Protein S-acyltransferases
    Anirban Banerjee - National Institutes of Health
  • Regulation of Axonal Transport in Neurons by S-acylation
    Shaun S. Sanders - University of Guelph, Canada
  • Palmitoylation of Serotonin Receptors: New Target for Treatment of Depression and Anxiety?
    Evgeni Ponimaskin - Hanover Medical School, Germany
  • Protein S-acylation-deacylation Cycles in Inflammation and Cancer
    Hening Lin – Cornell University
Artificial Intelligence in Toxicity Prediction

Prediction of potential toxicity is vital in both drug development and chemical regulation. However, chemical and drug-induced toxicity prediction remains a challenging problem. In recent years, a slew of artificial intelligence (AI) approaches, prominently machine and deep learning, have vastly improved the scope and accuracy of predictive toxicology. The specific areas in which these approaches have been used range from quantitative structure-activity relationships to single-cell based prediction of tissue-specific perturbations in gene expression. The overall objective of this session is to highlight some applications of AI in toxicity prediction, featuring case studies in integration of big data, machine learning for prediction of drug-induced liver injury, confidence in toxicity prediction, and predictive toxicology in a regulatory context. The session will be of interest to a broad spectrum of practitioners and trainees from across industry, regulatory agencies, and academia.

CHAIRS

  • Sudin Bhattacharya - Michigan State University

SPEAKERS

  • Interpretable Machine Learning Modeling of chemical Toxicity: From Big Data Profiling to Mechanistic Mapping
    Hao Zhu - Tulane University
  • AI/ML Models to Predict Toxicity for Small Molecules
    Mohan Rao - Neurocrine Biosicence
  • Predicting with Confidence – Conformal Prediction for Toxicity Endpoints
    Fredrik Svensson - Cancer Research Horizons
  • Deep Learning for Toxicity Prediction in a Regulatory Context
    Shraddha Thakkar - FDA
Guppy Tank: A Translational Science Pitch Competition

The “Guppy Tank” competition showcases translational science pitches from four ASPET trainees who were selected based on the novelty and translational potential of the project.The selected finalists were personally coached for the final presentation by mentors with established experience in the biotechnology or drug development space. In addition, this event features a keynote discussion by a rising scientific entrepreneur, whose novel drug discovery platform exemplifies translating an idea from the bench to business. This session will be an exciting and essential educational opportunity for ASPET trainees to hone their translational scientific communication skills while getting publicly recognized for their talents by the broader ASPET community.

CHAIRS

  • Saranya Radhakrishnan - National Institute of Mental Health
  • Gregory J. Grumbar - Georgetown University

SPEAKERS

  • Lights, Camera, Langendorff: A Preclinical Model to Assess Cardiac Maturity and Drug Efficacy
    Shatha Salameh - Children's National Hospital
  • From a Sleeping Pill to a Renoprotectant
    Christine Kim - Rutgers, The State Univ of New Jersey
  • A Novel Antipsychotic Candidate with the Potential for Greatly Decreased On-and-Off Target Side Effects
    Ashley N. Nilson - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH
  • Biased Allosteric Modulation of β-adrenergic Receptor Signaling
    Sushrut D. Shah - Thomas Jefferson University
  • Beyond Screening: Designing Novel Drugs by Looking through a PRISM™
    Bradlee Heckmann - USF Health & Asha Therapeutics
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm | Break for Lunch
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm | Invitation-only or Ticketed Events
  • ASPET Journals Editorial Board Member Lunch (invitation only)
  • Careers in Drug Metabolism and Disposition Networking for Trainees (RSVP needed, limited spots available)
  • IDEA Forum –  Are You a Fraud or Simply Amazing? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (RSVP needed, limited spots available)
  • Partnerships Committee International Networking (invitation only)
  • Washington Fellows Alumni Networking (invitation only)
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm| Concurrent Sessions
Use of Population Descriptors in ADME-Tox Research and Precision Medicine

This session will present cutting-edge, cross disciplinary research on advancing precision medicine in ethnically diverse populations, especially among understudied ethnic and genetic ancestry populations. A key question that will be addressed is what are best practices, challenges, and opportunities for the use of population descriptors (e.g., race, ethnicity and ancestry) in translational ADME-Tox and precision medicine research? The theme of this session will center around the impact of gene-environment interactions on drug disposition, efficacy and toxicity. The session will include short presentations by subject matter experts followed by an interactive panel discussion.

CHAIRS

  • Klarissa D. Jackson and Jed N. Lampe

SPEAKERS

  • PBPK Modeling with Ethnically Diverse Populations
    Amaka F. Ezuruike - Certara UK
  • Pharmacogenomics Research in Indigenous Communities
    Katrina Claw - University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
  • Disentangling Socioeconomic Status and Race with Machine Learning
    Kathryn Sarullo - Washington University School of Medicine
  • HIV Antiretroviral Drug Metabolism and Transport Mechanisms at the Blood Brain Barrier
    Hannah Wilkins - Johns Hopkins University
  • Panel Discussion
Targeting the Splice of Life: RNA Splicing as at Therapeutic Target

Alternative messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing regulates the function of most protein coding genes. Aberrant mRNA splicing that prevents protein production or causes the translation of a protein that cannot function properly has been associated with many devastating diseases including muscular dystrophies, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Therefore, understanding the role of alternative splicing and how it can be targeting will have an impact on a broad spectrum of diseases. The goals of this session are to demonstrate this through talks on alternative splicing as a therapeutic target in leukemias that harbor mutations in the splicing machinery as well as to improve cell function by targeting protein expression in neuromuscular diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy.The value of collaboration between academic and industry research teams will also be discussed.

CHAIRS

  • Lawrence Boise and Esther A. Obeng

SPEAKERS

  • STAT3 Inhibition is Toxic to Splicing Factor-mutant Cells
    Esther A. Obeng - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
  • Exon Skipping in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Rapidly Diversifying Landscape
    Eric Hoffman - Binghamton University
  • SMN2 Splicing Modifiers Improve Motor Function in SMA
    Marla Weetall - PTC Therapeutics
  • Synthetic introns for Targeting SF3B1 Mutant Aberrant Splicing in Cancer
    Salima Benbarche - Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
  • Demonstrating the Impact of the First RNA Recognition Motif (RRM1) of PTBP1 on RNA Splice Regulation in Glioblastoma
    Alexus Acton - University of Alabama at Birmingham
Organelles as Key Regulatory Sites of Health and Disease

Subcellular integration of signaling pathways has been recognized to occur at various organelles in adult cardiomyocytes, leading to previously unrecognized mechanisms for modulating contractility, hypertrophy and survival. These pathways can be activated in response to various stimuli, including neurohormone signaling and ischemic stress. Expert speakers in this field will discuss their recent findings in organelle-localized signaling processes regulating cardiomyocyte function and stress.

CHAIRS

  • Douglas G. Tilley and Roshanak Irannejad

SPEAKERS

  • Golgi-targeted Receptor Integration of Hypertrophy
    Alan V. Smrcka - University of Michigan
  • Intracellular Receptor Regulates Contractile and Gene Expression
    Yang Xiang - University of California at Davis
  • Lysosomes as Key regulators of Cardiomyocyte Stress Adaptation and Survival
    Jillian Simon - Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
  • Modulation of Perinuclear Calcium Signaling
    Kimberly Dodge-Kafka - University of Connecticut Health Center
  • Gαs Inhibitor Peptide probes for the Spatiotemporal Interrogation of Signaling
    Jingyi Zhao - Boston University
Therapeutic Potential of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists for Compulsive Behaviors and Substance Use Disorders

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists have gained broad popularity as effective therapeutics for glycemic and weight control, and due to their involvement in satiety signaling in the brain, these compounds have promise for regulating compulsive eating disorder. GLP-1Rs are highly concentrated in areas of the brain involved in reward seeking and avoidance, consistent with their role in meal termination and satiety. Interestingly, drugs of abuse also engage these reward and avoidance circuits, thus raising the question of whether GLP-1R agonists could induce drug satiety. During the past decade, there have been numerous preclinical efforts to explore the therapeutic potential of GLP-1R agonists in substance use disorders, from nicotine to alcohol, stimulants, and opioids. In this panel, we will review some of the basic preclinical findings that established the feasibility of using GLP-1R agonists as addiction therapeutics, as well as the progress of current trials that examine their potential clinical efficacy.

CHAIRS

  • Hoang V. Le and Luis Tuesta

SPEAKERS

  • Cessation through Satiety: Leveraging GLP-1 Signaling to Curb Nicotine Use
    Luis Tuesta - University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
  • Targeting Central GLP-1 Receptors to Reduce Voluntary Drug-Taking and -Seeking Behaviors
    Heath D. Schmidt - University of Pennsylvania
  • Testing the Safety and Efficacy of a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder in Rats and Man
    Sue Grigson - Penn State College of Medicine
  • Human Laboratory Screening of Semaglutide as a Novel Addiction Therapeutic
    Christian Hendershot – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • Panel Discussion - State of the Field and Future Directions
3:00 pm – 3:30 pm | Break
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm | Concurrent Sessions
Pharmacological Evaluation of Emerging Drugs of Abuse

Drug overdose-related deaths are increasing worldwide. The marked escalation in drug use, abuse, and overdose is driven, in part, by rapidly evolving illicit drug markets. This symposium will feature research investigating emerging drugs of abuse, including novel compounds that are not well-characterized as well as more widely known drugs that have taken on new roles in recreational/non-medical drug use. This session will highlight the contributions of rigorous pharmacological research toward understanding emerging drugs of abuse. In turn, it is expected that these characterizations can be leveraged toward developing more effective detection, prevention, and treatment approaches.

CHAIRS

  • David R. Maguire and Cassandra D. Gipson

SPEAKERS

  • Pharmacology of the Newly Emerging Stimulant Drug, N,N-dimethylpentylone (DMP)
    Michael H. Baumann - Designer Drug Research Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse
  • Xylazine and Fentanyl: Drug Taking and Withdrawal
    Cassandra D. Gipson - University of Kentucky
  • Interactions between Gabapentinoids and Opioids
    Shawn Flynn - UT Health San Antonio
Recent Advances in NLRP3 Inflammasome Signaling in Cardiovascular Diseases

The NLRP3 inflammasome has been recognized as the intracellular machinery to switch on the inflammatory response in a variety of mammalian cells. Recently, oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor protein with pyrin domain containing 3 (Nlrp3) is found to detect endogenous stress-associated danger signals such as beta-amyloid, visfatin, gut microbial metabolite TMAO, ATP, cholesterol crystal and homocysteine to produce local tissue sterile inflammation. Many studies on Nlrp3 inflammasomes have highlighted the implication of their formation and activation in the pathogenesis of autoinflammatory diseases and various chronic metabolic or degenerative diseases including diabetes mellitus, gout, acute myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, glomerular sclerosis, and Alzheimer disease. Recently, a new concept is emerging that activation of various inflammasomes is the root of or route to many chronic degenerative diseases. It is believed that inflammasomes will take center stage in pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, vascular inflammation, cardiac remodeling and associated end-stage organ diseases. Recent studies have revealed the novel mechanistic insights for targeting inflammasomes and developing novel therapeutic strategy for treatment and prevention of various cardiovascular diseases.

CHAIRS

  • Krishna M. Boini and Sai S. Koka

SPEAKERS

  • Interleukin-1 Beta in Heart Remodeling and Dysfunction
    Stefano Toldo - University of Virginia
  • Unravelling the Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Gut Microbial Metabolites-induced Endothelial Dysfunction
    Sai S. Koka - Texas A&M University
  • The NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway Induces Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction Following Traumatic Brain Injury
    Binu Tharakan - Morehouse School of Medicine
  • Membrane Raft Redox Signaling Pathway in Nicotine-Induced NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation and Podocyte Injury
    Mohammad Atiqur Rahman – University of Houston
Transforming Pharmacology Education: IDEA, Theory, Engagement, and Compliance

Join us for a dynamic symposium hosted by the ASPET IDEA Committee that explores the multifaceted realm of pharmacology education. This concise yet impactful session will delve into transformative teaching methodologies, effective student retention and learner engagement strategies, and the imperative journey toward fostering inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility (IDEA) within the discipline. Participants will learn strategies for effectively embedding IDEA principles in pharmacology education in compliance with federal and state requirements and identify best practices for cultivating inclusive environments.

Who Will Benefit: This session is tailored for pharmacology educators, researchers, administrators, policymakers, and anyone dedicated to enhancing pharmacology education. Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical takeaways.

Learning Objectives: Transformative Education: Gain a solid grasp of transformative education theory and critical pedagogy to discover their direct applications in pharmacology education.

Student Retention: Explore key student retention and learner engagement educational theories by influential scholars like Tinto and Arroyo and Gasman. Learn actionable strategies to enhance student success within pharmacology programs.

IDEA and Compliance: Understand the significance of DEIA initiatives in pharmacology education and the necessity of compliance with federal and state requirements. Identify best practices for cultivating inclusive environments.

Expectations: We anticipate an engaging and concise symposium featuring expert speakers and an interactive discussion panel. By the session's conclusion, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to revolutionize their approach to pharmacology education, boost student engagement and contribute to a more inclusive and compliant educational landscape.

CHAIRS

  • Ashim Malhotra, Chair, ASPET IDEA Committee - California Northstate University

SPEAKERS

  • Educational Theory and Diverse Learner Engagement
    Ashim Malhotra - California Northstate University
  • IDEA in Pharmacology Education and Compliance
    L'Aurelle Johnson – University of Minnesota
Navigating Science Policy: Priorities, Advocacy and Engagement

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring experts from government agencies, government relations and ASPET. Panelists will (1) explore how policy experts work with scientists, administrators and policy makers to collaborate in the process of rule-making that impacts biomedical research, (2) discuss ASPET's approach to identifying science policy priorities to advance pharmacology and biomedical research, and (3) describe the career journeys that led them from research roles to the policy arena.

CHAIRS

  • David Cabrera - Van Andel Institute
  • Marcus S. Delatte - Allucent

PANEL DISCUSSION

  • Libby O'Hare - Radiological Society of North America (RSNA)
  • Marah Wahbeh - ASPET
  • Carmine Leggett - Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, OMB
  • Jessica Tucker – National Institutes of Health
4:30 pm – 5:00 pm | Break
5:00 pm – 5:30 pm | Daily Datablitz

Experience the daily ASPET datablitz, a rapid-fire oral presentation of research. Each day 10 poster presenters will give three-minute short talks in the poster hall. These brief snippets of research are an introduction to their full presentations that will take place at their poster boards afterwards. You won’t want to miss this fast-paced overview.

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Poster Presentations and Mixer

Enjoy a drink and snacks while exploring the latest science or presenting it yourself! Posters are grouped by divisional topic area and every night includes student and postdoc finalists competing for poster awards. Hear their presentations and discuss the latest research advances.

Saturday, May 18, 2024

8:00 am – 8:50 am | Keynote by Shehnaaz Suliman, M.D., MPhil, MBA  

Shehnaaz Suliman, M.D., MPhil, MBA

What's Next in Biotech? Where We Are and Where Are We Headed

Dr. Shehnaaz Suliman is the CEO of ReCode Therapeutics. This genetic medicines company is powering the next wave of genetic medicines through tissue-specific lipid nanoparticle delivery. Dr. Suliman will discuss the relevant trends in biotech and pharma, specifically areas of research focus for companies and patient interest. She will also highlight how small companies approach drug discovery and development and how they support the broader development ecosystem. Dr. Suliman is a physician, drug-developer and company-builder who has played a leading role for over 25 years in transforming high growth companies. She is also a nationally acclaimed female business leader and advocate for healthcare equity and access.

9:00 am – 10:30 am | Concurrent Sessions
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Dynamic Pharmacology Education

Division for Pharmacology Education

While the use of technology in healthcare and medical education continues to increase, the recent and rapid rise of the public use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots has propelled us into the future faster than expected. Generative AI chatbots bring time-saving benefits but also present concerns around accuracy, academic integrity and the loss of creativity. Regardless of what we do, these easily accessible tools will revolutionize what we teach and how we teach it. In this workshop, we will review different AI options that can be used in pharmacology education and classroom settings, explore the benefits and challenges of using AI and discuss how to optimize AI to create and improve pharmacology educational materials. By the end of this workshop, participants can:

  • Explore the potential of generative AI in enhancing pharmacology education for healthcare professionals.
  • Discuss best practices and ethical considerations in integrating AI into pharmacology education.
  • Foster collaboration and networking among educators, researchers, and developers in the field of pharmacology education using AI.
  • Identify challenges and future directions in the use of AI for pharmacology education.

CHAIRS

  • Jennelle D. Richardson and Reem Atawia

SPEAKERS

  • Navigating Boundaries: AI’s Limitations in Medical Education
    Jennelle D. Richardson - Indiana University School of Medicine
  • Optimizing Prompt Keywords for Pharm Education Excellence
    Reem Atawia - Southwestern Oklahoma State University
  • Harnessing Generative AI Options In and Out the Classroom
    Rupa Lalchandani Tuan - University of California, San Francisco
PB DEWS AWARD SYMPOSIUM AND THE NEXT GEN OF BEHAVIORAL PHARMACOLOGY
Division for Behavioral Pharmacology

This session features a talk by Dr. Michael A Nader, Ph.D., the 2024 winner of the PB Dews Lifetime Achievement Award for Research in Behavioral Pharmacology. In addition, current, and former mentees of Dr. Nader will present data highlighting the important application of behavioral pharmacology principles to the study of substance use disorders and in vivo drug action in rodents and nonhuman primates.

CHAIRS

  • Emily M. Jutkiewicz and Brenda M. Gannon

SPEAKERS

  • Introducing the PB Dews Award Winner
    James E. Barrett - Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University
  • PB Dews Award Lecture:
    The Legacy of Peter Dew’s Research: Preaching Beyond the Choir

    Michael A. Nader - Wake Forest University School of Medicine
  • Lessons Learned from Modeling Polydrug use in Nonhuman Primates
    Mia I. Allen - Wake Forest University School of Medicine
  • Defining the Cell-type Specific Activity Signatures in the Brain that Underlie Reinforcement Learning
    Erin Calipari - Vanderbilt University
  • It’s All About the Environment: The Peter Dews to Michael Nader Connection
    Matthew Banks - Virginia Commonwealth University
Bernard B. Brodie Award in Drug Metabolism and Disposition Lecture, Gillette Award Lectures, and Junior Investigator Platform Session
Division of Drug Metabolism and Disposition

This session will feature a talk from the B. B. Brodie Award winner and two talks from the authors of the best papers of 2023 from Drug Metabolism and Disposition who received the James R. Gillette Awards in pharmacokinetics/transporters and drug-metabolizing enzymes. The session will also include abstract-based oral presentations from graduate students and postdoctoral fellows focused on drug metabolism and disposition.

CHAIRS

  • Hyunyoung Jeong and Kerry Goralski

SPEAKERS

  • Bernard B. Brodie Award Lecture:
    Shining a Light on Inflammation as a Critical Modulator of Drug Metabolism
    Edward T. Morgan - Emory University
  • Gillette Award Lecture:
    Presenting on behalf of Asami Toshim: Comprehensive Analyses of the Intracellular and in Vivo Disposition of Fab–Small Interfering RNA Conjugate to Identify Key Issues to Improve Its in Vivo Activity
    Junichi Enokizono - Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd.
  • Gillette Award Lecture:
    Metabolomic Profiling and Drug Interaction Characterization Reveal Riboflavin As a Breast Cancer Resistance Protein–Specific Endogenous Biomarker That Demonstrates Prediction of Transporter Activity In Vivo
    Yueping Zhang - Bristol-Myers Squibb
  • Development and Characterization of a Cytochrome P450 CYP3A7 Fetal Hepatocyte-Like Cell Model Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
    Emily Gracey - University of Colorado Anschutz
  • Quantitative Proteomics of Human Urine-Isolated Extracellular Vesicles Reveals Significant and Reproducible Enrichment of EV Markers and Renal Drug-Interacting Proteins
    Christopher Harding - Washington State University
  • Meta-Iodobenzylguanidine as an Exogenous Biomarker of Cardiac OCT3 Function
    Mike Boeckman - Ohio State University
Susan B. Horwitz Award in Cancer Pharmacology Lecture and Cancer Pharmacology Early Career Showcase
Division for Cancer Pharmacology

This session will feature a keynote talk by the Susan B. Horwitz Awardee. The award is named in honor of Dr. Horwitz who is a pioneer in understanding the mechanism of action of cancer chemotherapy drugs many of which have been and remain mainstays of cancer therapy and whose work has changed the nature of cancer treatment. In addition, this session will showcase oral presentations by young scientists, featuring both graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the area of cancer pharmacology.

CHAIRS

  • William J. Placzek

SPEAKERS

  • Susan Band Horwitz Award Lecture:
    FLT3 Inhibitor Resistance: Novel Mechanisms and Combinatorial Treatment Strategies
    Sharyn Baker - The Ohio State University
  • Scaffold Protein Scribble Potently Regulates the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) Pathway by Modulating the Phosphorylation and Stability of the Transcription Factor Gli2
    Jingwen Zhu - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
  • Exploring the Synergy of G9a and ATM/ATR Pathway Interactions as a Precision Treatment Strategy in ATM-deficient Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
    Madeline M. Dzikowski - Medical College of Wisconsin
  • Novel Functions for BNIP3L/NIX in Promoting Breast Cancer Growth and Metastasis
    Dianicha Santana - The University of Chicago
10:30 am - 11:00 am | Break

11:00 am – 12:30 pm | Concurrent Sessions
Braving Unique Frontiers: Challenges Faced by Pharmacologists in Developing Regions

The session is designed to shed light on the extraordinary hurdles encountered by pharmacologists operating in developing regions, including limited resources, diverse patient populations and unique regulatory and geopolitical environments. Through insightful short presentations and a panel discussion, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of each region’s unique challenges and the innovative strategies and solutions developed by these pharmacologists to advance research and improve healthcare outcomes, while also providing valuable networking opportunities for the presenters.

CHAIRS

  • Khalid Garman and Engie Elsawaf

PANELISTS DISCUSSION

  • Engie Elsawaf - Future University in Egypt (FUE)
  • Priscilla K. Mante - Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
  • Haneen Dwaib - Palestine Ahliya University
  • Vanesa Gottifredi - Leloir Institute Foundation, Argentina (Financial Scarcity and Geographic Isolation: A Formula for Defeat or an Opportunity for Creative Thinking?)
Translational and Clinical Pharmacology Young Investigator Awards Platform and Early-Career Researcher Showcase
Division for Translational and Clinical Pharmacology

This session will feature oral presentations from young scientists selected from the submitted abstracts as well as talks by the winners of the Division for Translational and Clinical Pharmacology Early-Career Awards.

CHAIRS

  • Adam Lauver and Traci A. Czyzyk

SPEAKERS

  • Reduction of NLRP3 Inflammasome-mediated Inflammation in a Novel Inducible NEK7 Knockout Mouse Model
    Mahamudul Haque - Merck
  • Development of a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model for Predicting Midazolam Pharmacokinetics in a Pediatric Population with Obesity
    Nusrat Ahmed - University of Nebraska Medical Center
  • Early Career Award Lecture:
    Physiologically-based PK/PD Modeling of Targeted Nanoparticles
    Patrick M. Glassman - Temple University
Scientific Achievement Award in Drug Discovery and Development Lecture and Notable Abstracts Platform Presentations
Division for Drug Discovery and Development

This session will highlight oral presentations by young scientists doing research in drug discovery and development who were selected from the submitted abstracts. Additionally, the session will feature a keynote from the 2024 Scientific Achievement in Drug Discovery and Development awardee.

CHAIRS

  • Xiaodong Cheng and Francis S. Willard

SPEAKERS

  • Characterization of NCGC1360 and NCGC1366 as Highly-Selective D2 Dopamine Receptor Antagonists and Lead Candidates for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders
    Ashley N. Nilson - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH
  • An Ex Vivo Ovulation Screening System to Develop Non-Hormonal Female Contraceptives
    Yunman (Sonia) Song - Rutgers University
  • Assessment of an Allosteric Modulator of GIRK 1/2 in Preclinical Models of Cancer-Related Neuropathies to Alleviate Associated Mechanical Allodynia
    Yuma T. Ortiz - Texas Tech University Health Science Center
  • Introduction of Awardee
    Xiaodong Cheng - UTHealth
  • Scientific Achievement Award Lecture:
    Academic Drug Discovery: Challenges and Opportunities
    Zhiqiang An - University of Texas Health Science Center
Neuropharmacology Early-Career Investigator Award Lecture and Postdoctoral Fellow Showcase
Division for Neuropharmacology

This session will feature oral presentations from postdoc finalists selected from the submitted abstracts as well as a talk by the winner of the Division for Neuropharmacology Early-Career Award.

CHAIRS

  • Venetia Zachariou and Erin Bobeck

SPEAKERS

  • Chronic Fentanyl Alters Intestinal Epithelial Gene Expression: Implications for Opioid-Induced Antinociceptive Tolerance and the Gut-Brain Axis
    Karan Hitesh Muchhala - Virginia Commonwealth Univ
  • Neuroimmune Circuitry of Midbrain Dopamine Neurons
    Adithya Gopinath - University of Florida
  • Enhancement of Opioid Analgesia by Positive Allosteric Modulation of the µ-Opioid Receptor in a Rat Model of Chronic Neuropathic Pain
    Benjamin M. Clements - University of Michigan
  • Dorsal Root Ganglion NSUN2 Regulates Acute Sensory Hypersensitivity after Peripheral Injury
    Zahra Farzinpour - Boston University
  • Fluorescently Labelled Ligand Allow Detection of DAT in Human and Mouse Peripheral Blood Monocytes by Flow Cytometry
    Gisela Camacho Hernandez - National Institute on Drug Abuse
  • Early Career Award Lecture:
    Lecture Title TBD
    Lauren Slosky - University of Minnesota
  • Early Career Award Lecture:
    Targeting BET Bromodomains in Substance Use Disorders
    Gregory C. Sartor - University of Connecticut
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm | Break
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm | Concurrent Sessions
Tool Kit on Leadership Skills

This session is hosted by the ASPET Mentoring and Career Development (MCD) Committee. The goal of this session is to engage pharmacologists from all career levels to a general discussion on leadership and why it is important to engage. Using both short presentations and round table discussions, the expert panelists will provide attendees with the principles of leadership and take-home resources. The focused table discussions will include elements of leadership, leadership models, barriers to leadership positions and different kinds of leadership paths.

CHAIRS

  • Martha Davila-Garcia and Gregory J. Grumbar

FOCUS AREAS AND PANELISTS

  • Leadership Styles - Kenneth J. Kellar - Georgetown University
  • Leadership Skills - Susan G. Amara - National Institute of Mental Health
  • Leading Inclusively - Robert P. Biney - University of Cape Coast, Ghana
  • Charting Your Role as a Leader - Jessica A. Mong - University of Maryland
  • Research Career Progression and Transition: From PhD student to Postdoc to Chief Investigator - Des R. Richardson - Griffith Univ.
Cardiovascular Pharmacology Trainee Showcase and Award Lectures
Division for Cardiovascular Pharmacology

This session will feature the Trainee Showcase oral presentations by young scientists, featuring both graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. It will also feature presentations by winners of the division’s Early-Career and Mid-Career Awards.

CHAIRS

  • Haneen Dwaib, Wenhui Wei, and Bradley McConnell

SPEAKERS

Awardees and speakers to be announced.

Molecular Pharmacology Early-Career Award and Postdoc Competition
Division for Molecular Pharmacology

This award competition features oral presentations from postdoctoral trainees selected from the submitted abstracts as well as a keynote lecture from the winner of the ASPET Division for Molecular Pharmacology Early-Career Award.

CHAIRS

  • Maurine E. Linder and Roshanak Irannejad

SPEAKERS

  • Structural Studies of the CELSR1 Extracellular Region Reveal a Compact Multidomain Module of thirteen Domains which Regulates Signaling
    Sumit J. Bandekar - University of Chicago
  • Nanobody Tethering Enables Highly Biased Agonism for GPCR Ligands
    Shivani Sachdev - NIH, NIDDK
  • Long-term Kappa Opioid Receptor Inhibition by Norbinaltorphimine and 14-3-3γ
    Michael J. Wedemeyer - University of Texas Health, San Antonio
  • Early Career Award Lecture:
    Untangling the Complexity of Opioid Receptor Signaling
    Tao Che - Washington University in Saint Louis
Division for Toxicology Session

Speakers to be announced.

3:00 pm – 3:30 pm | Break
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm | Concurrent Sessions
Journals Workshop: Opening the Blinds on the Editorial and Review Process

Today there is an increasing demand for qualified manuscript reviewers which is driving the request for peer review at earlier stages of a career. However, there is no formal training in peer-review at any stage of an academic career. The tasks, duties and role of an Associate Editor or Editor within a journal are also at times unclear.

At the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (JPET), we must play a role in preparing the next generation of reviewers, and there is an unmet need for comprehensive reviewer training, especially for scientists. This session provides more advanced training geared towards the editorial process by describing the strategy we have taken at JPET to close the gap for this unmet need by provided more formal training for our early-career scientists through the JPET editorial fellowship.

CHAIRS

  • Eric R. Gross and Beverley Greenwood-Van Meerveld

SPEAKERS

  • Overview of the JPET Editorial Fellowship Program
    Eric R. Gross, Associate Editor, JPET
  • What it Takes to Submit a Successful Application to the JPET
    Freeborn Rwere - Stanford University School of Medicine
  • Tips and Tricks Learned from the JPET Editorial Fellowship
    Catharine Mielnik - University of Toronto
  • What are the Benefits of Becoming a JPET Editorial Fellow
    Mahmoud S. Ahmed – Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
  • The JPET Editorial Fellowship Program: Tips and Tricks for Future Fellows
    Cristina D. Peterson - University of Minnesota
  • Q&A
    Beverley Greenwood-Van Meerveld, Editor in Chief, JPET
New Frontiers in Receptor/Kinase Signaling

Communication between transmembrane receptors and kinases is fundamental to human health and disease. For many years receptors were thought to signal to kinases almost exclusively through conventional second messenger pathways and phosphorylation cascades. In this Symposium, we highlight recent studies from both new and established investigators that are challenging this traditional view, revealing a striking diversity in the biochemical and cell biological mechanisms that underlie receptor-kinase signaling. These mechanisms include direct GPCR-kinase interactions, physical scaffolds localized to discrete subcellular compartments, and distance-dependent regulation of intracellular kinase pools by intracellular GPCRs. Together, these studies represent a new frontier in receptor-kinase signaling research – one that helps to explain how receptor-kinase signaling leads to a diverse set of functional outputs and biological outcomes, and also provides new ideas about how therapeutically modulate this signaling to improve health outcomes.

CHAIRS

  • Benjamin Myers and Nikoleta Tsvetanova

SPEAKERS

  • New Frontiers in PKA Signaling
    Susan Taylor - University of California, San Diego
  • Specifically Targeting a Subpopulation of the Multi-functional Kinase GSK3β
    Jesse Zalatan - University of Washington
  • Protein Kinase A (Mis)localization in Adrenal Physiology and Disease
    Mitchell Omar - University of Nevada Reno
  • Unconventional GPCR-kinase Signaling in the Hedgehog Pathway
    Benjamin Myers - University of Utah School of Medicine
Signaling at the Right Place and the Right Time: Spatial Determinants of Function

Technological advances enabling the visualization of activated receptors and signaling molecules at high spatiotemporal resolution are transforming our concepts of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling. In addition to the plasma membrane, GPCR signaling can occur in subcellular compartments including endosomes and Golgi. Because cellular location determines function, the spatial dimension of receptor signaling allows for GPCRs to have multiple cellular functions. This panel will present explorations into this new frontier in GPCR signaling, addressing questions of the functional relevance of compartmentalized signaling and how spatial bias of GPCR and cAMP signaling can be leveraged to develop novel therapeutics.

CHAIRS

  • Jennifer Kunselman and Rita Valentino
  • SPEAKERS

    • Compartment-specific Opioid Receptor Signaling by Dynorphins
      Jennifer Kunselman - National Institutes of Health
    • Compartmentalized Signaling of Pain
      Nigel W. Bunnett - New York University
    • Multiomics Approach to Interrogate Translational Regulation to GPCR Signaling and its Spatial Bias
      Matt Klauer - Duke University
Facilitating Drug Discovery and Development Using AI / Machine Learning

Co-Sponsored by the American College of Clinical Pharmacology

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are poised to be transformational technologies in multiple aspects of pharmacology, enabling researchers to utilize real-world data to better inform key decisions at multiple stages of the drug discovery and development process. In particular, the application of these technologies to the disciplines of translational and clinical pharmacology could have a tremendous impact on both target identification and drug development. This session will provide a broad set of perspectives on potential applications of AI/ML in pharmacology, covering how it could be used to (1) facilitate reverse translational efforts/target discovery using existing data sets; (2) make dose recommendations and predict drug interactions and adverse reactions; (3) and to optimize the exposure, safety, and efficacy of drugs. By covering practical examples of how AI/ML can be applied, this session will provide a thought-provoking overview of the utility of these technologies in pharmacology.

CHAIRS

  • Ross Corriden and Robert Bies

SPEAKERS

  • Application of Machine Learning in Translational Medicine
    Lisa Benincosa - Allucent
  • The Potential/Pitfalls of AI in Clinical Pharmacology
    Megan Gibbs - AstraZeneca
  • A GPT4-based Patient Simulation to Enhance the Integration of Pharmacology with Clinical Decision Making in a PharmD Program
    Karim Pajazetovic - California Northstate University 

4:30 pm – 5:00 pm | Break
5:00 pm – 5:30 pm | Daily Datablitz

Experience the daily ASPET datablitz, a rapid-fire oral presentation of research. Each day 10 poster presenters will give three-minute short talks in the poster hall. These brief snippets of research are an introduction to their full presentations that will take place at their poster boards afterwards. You won’t want to miss this fast-paced overview.

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Poster Presentations and Mixer

Enjoy a drink and snacks while exploring the latest science or presenting it yourself! Posters are grouped by divisional topic area and every night includes student and postdoc finalists competing for poster awards. Hear their presentations and discuss the latest research advances.

Sunday, May 19, 2024

8:00 am – 8:50 am | Keynote by Brian Shoichet, PhD

Brian Shoichet, PhD

Following the Rabbit into Chemical Space

Dr. Brian Shoichet is a Professor of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the University of California, San Francisco. Recently, docking libraries have expanded from three million “in-stock” to billions of make-on-demand (“tangible”) molecules. Docking these new libraries has revealed novel scaffolds with nM and sub-nM potencies directly from the docking. Dr. Shoichet will discuss recent applications to several targets where in vivo active leads have been developed for analgesia and for metabolic control. In the Shoichert Lab, scientists are developing new computational methods for ligand discovery and applying these to G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCR).

9:00 am – 10:30 am | Concurrent Sessions
Axelrod Symposium and Lecture: Novel Insights into G Protein-coupled Receptor Kinases Modifying Cardiac Function and Metabolism

G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) kinases (GRKs) play key roles in global homeostatic signaling in several organs and tissues. Accordingly, they are emerging as important targets in pathological conditions. GRK2 and GRK5 have been gaining attention for the role in the cardiovascular system; however, more recently, both have been implicated in disease outside of the heart as well. This innovative symposium will cover novel aspects of both GRKs in health and pathology with a focus on cardiometabolic health and include the latest in small molecule inhibitor design and translation.

CHAIRS

  • Walter J. Koch

SPEAKERS

  • Award Lecture
    Novel Roles for GRK2 and GRK5 in the Heart
    Walter J. Koch - Duke University School of Medicine
  • Symposium
    Rational Design of Selective Small Molecule Inhibitors of GRK2 and GRK5
    John JG. Tesmer - Purdue University
  • GRK2 Amino Terminal Domain and Novel Control of Cardiac Function and Systemic Metabolism
    Sarah M. Schumacher - Lerner Research Institute of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation
  • Novel Regulation of Insulin Signaling by GRK2
    Priscila Sato - Drexel University
Translating Academic Drug Discovery through Partnerships

Examining the challenges and opportunities in translating bench science to clinical applications is imperative for effectively translating novel scientific discoveries. This session will identify the gaps that bridge laboratory research to a successful drug or life science technology development program. Discussions will include strategies that could enable effective partnership formation, intellectual property considerations and technology transfer.

CHAIRS

  • Xiaodong Cheng and Benita Sjogren

SPEAKERS

  • The Landscape of Antibody-drug Conjugates (ADCs) for Cancer Therapy
    Kyoji KT. Tsuchikama - The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
  • Preclinical and Clinical Development of ADCs with Novel Linker and Dual Payloads
    Michael J. Torres - CrossBridge Bio, Inc.
  • Reaching Across the Aisle to turn Behavioral Observation to a Clinical Candidate
    Sara Jane Ward - Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University
  • The Power of Networking to Form Collaborations Resulting in Therapeutic Value
    Douglas Brenneman - Kannalife Sciences
  • Panel Discussion
Escape the Boredom: How to Use Gamification in Pharmacology to Engage Students

Gamification is a powerful strategy to enhance student engagement, motivation, as well as learning outcomes. In this session, different gamification approaches to engage health professional students will be demonstrated with an interactive presentation and hands on approach. Attendees will learn about the basics of game-based learning including the elements and attributes of successful gamification and general tips for game design. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore how to gamify autonomic nervous system pharmacology using simulated tracings, develop escape rooms, and create case-based thought process/decision making games. Attendees will be able to work in small groups to experience and discuss various interactive games. This session is suitable for anyone who is interested in gamifying their pharmacology sessions. By the end of this symposium, the participants can:

  • Explain the basics of game-based learning, including the elements and attributes of successful gamification and
  • Apply gamification techniques in three scenarios: solving autonomic pharmacology puzzles, virtual escape room and case-based games.

CHAIR

  • Monzurul Roni and Shantanu Rao

SPEAKERS

  • Basics of Game-based Learning
    Monzurul Roni - University of Illinois College of Medicine
  • Pharmacology Gamification and Q&A
    Vanishree Rajagopalan - Touro University California-College of Pharmacy
    Shantanu Rao - University of Findlay
    Helmut Gottlieb - University of the Incarnate Word-Feik School of Pharmacy
Perinatal Pharmacology: Transporters in Nutrient and Xenobiotic Disposition

The ability of membrane transporters to influence perinatal health has emerged as a crucial area that has been largely overlooked by researchers. To meet this demand, NIH launched the Transporter Elucidation Network in 2023. This network will address knowledge gaps and develop novel technologies to assess the transport of nutrients, supplements toxicants, and drugs to the fetus and infant. Studies are focusing on the placenta, lactating mammary gland, and the developing blood-brain barrier and gut. Collectively, this network is advancing and validating translational approaches to study the function and regulation of human SLC and ABC transporters.

CHAIRS

  • Lauren M. Aleksunes

SPEAKERS

  • Demystifying Transporter Pharmacology in Early Development
    Aaron Pawlyk – National Institutes of Health
  • DIA Proteomic Workflow for Quantification of Transporters
    Samuel Arnold - University of Washington
  • Solute Carriers in the Human Blood-Brain Barrier
    Sook Wah Yee - University of California San Francisco
  • Transportome in Organoid Models of Lactation and Intestine
    Joanna Melia - Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
  • Impact of Aging and Sex on the Expression and Function of Xenobiotic Transporters at the Blood-CSF Barrier
    Tianzheng Shan - University of Washington, Seattle
10:30 am - 11:00 am | Break
11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Concurrent Sessions
Celebrating NIDA’s 50th Year

Over the last 50 years, NIDA has supported generations of basic and clinical scientists who have advanced our understanding of substance use disorders to improve public health. ASPET members have been pioneers of NIDA-funded research in the substance use disorder field. This symposium will showcase recent clinical and preclinical findings from ASPET members as we celebrate the beginning of NIDA’s next 50 years. They will discuss their latest findings from opioid, cannabinoid and psychostimulant research using molecular, behavioral and clinical/translational approaches to support NIDA’s mission. Presentations will feature pertinent topics and techniques like sex differences in clinical populations, deep sequencing, and opto- and chemogenetic tools to explore substance use on many levels.

CHAIRS

  • Deborah Luessen and Kelly Standifer

SPEAKERS

  • Overview
    NIDA Representative
  • Traversing Chemical Space for Substance use Disorders
    Aashish Manglik - University of California, San Francisco
  • Probing the Analgesic effects of Cannabis Constituents: Looking beyond Delta-9-THC
    Ziva Cooper - University of California, Los Angeles
  • Transcriptomic Analysis of the Ventral Tegmental Area and Nucleus Accumbens in Rats Self-administering Cocaine
    Rong Chen - Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Integrating IDEATE into Pharmacology Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship

This symposium session embodies the spirit of inquiry, exploration and innovation by introducing the transformative the Innovation and Design for Exploration and Analysis in Teaching Excellence (IDEATE) model with an added objective of incorporating AI into pharmacology teaching, learning and educational scholarship. IDEATE provides a structured framework to nurture creativity and innovation in teaching and learning practices. We will highlight how the IDEATE model, augmented by artificial/augmented intelligence (AI), seamlessly integrates into the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL) within pharmacology education. This session invites participants to embark on a journey of discovery, emphasizing the following key aspects: Creating a Community of Practice, Innovative Pedagogy and Career Advancement.

CHAIRS

  • Jayne Reuben

SPEAKERS

  • IDEATE in Pharmacology Education
    Jayne Reuben - Texas A & M Univ College of Dentistry
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences/Pharmacy Practice Collaboration
    Tracy Womble - Florida A&M University
  • AI in Pharmacology Education
    Hadar Arien-Zakay - The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Moving Your Discovery from Bench to Bedside: IP Considerations for Scientists

The successful translation of a biomedical discovery to a commercial product is dependent on many factors, including adequate intellectual property (IP) protection. From early-career scientists exploring novel therapeutic targets to established researchers with commercialization in sight, all benefit from understanding the fundamentals of IP rights and protections. This session will provide a brief introduction to key IP concepts for biomedical researchers, including public disclosure, invention utility, non-obviousness and prior-ART. This will be followed by an in-depth, moderator-led, panel discussion with technology transfer experts from government, industry and academia. The expert panel possesses decades of technology transfer experience, with both research and legal backgrounds, and is well-equipped to discuss the nuances of IP protection in translational drug discovery research and explore unique challenges facing academic to clinical translation in this interactive session.

CHAIRS

  • Diane E. Peters and Tara L. Kirby

SPEAKER

  • Moving Your Discovery From Bench to Bedside: IP Considerations for Scientists
    Steven Ferguson - National Institutes of Health

PANEL DISCUSSION

  • Brian Coblitz - The George Washington University
  • Gillian M. Fenton - GlaxoSmithKline
  • John A. Fraser - Burnside Development and Assoc LLC
Hot Topics - Diverse Discoveries Across Divisions

Join us for this exciting session of cross-divisional lightning talks.

CHAIRS

  • Carol Paronis, and Aarzoo Thakur

SPEAKERS

  • How Membranes Shape the β-arrestin Conformational Landscape to Provide Spatiotemporal Control of GPCR Desensitization and Trafficking
    John Janetzko - Stanford University
  • Developing 2-Aminothiophene Derivatives as Positive Allosteric Modulators of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor
    Zhijun Li - Saint Joseph's University
  • De Novo Identification and Validation of Human Endogenous Biomarkers of Renal Organic Anion Transporters for Predicting Interindividual Variability
    Aarzoo Thakur - Washington State University
  • A Phase IIa Clinical Trial of KAND567, Fractalkine Receptor Inhibitor, in Patients with ST-Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
    Yasemin Ekinci - Newcastle University
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm | Awards Lunch

Celebrate our Scientific Achievement Awardees and see who has won Poster Awards!

2:00 pm | ASPET 2024 Annual Meeting Adjourns

3rd Academic Drug Discovery Colloquium
(Additional fee)

Introducing the Next Generation of Drug Hunters

Join ASPET and the Academic Drug Discovery Consortium (ADDC) as they host the 3rd Academic Drug Discovery Colloquium. The Colloquium runs from 3:00 pm on Sunday, May 19 through 5:00 pm on Monday, May 20. It is a separate registration fee but you can sign up for both the annual meeting and colloquium at same time.

Learn more at www.aspet.org/colloquium.

Team science starts here! Meet your future collaborators in drug discovery. Be a part of the Colloquium that bridges today’s research discoveries to tomorrow’s therapies.

Pharmacologists, medicinal chemists, drug discovery scientists, in vitro/in vivo scientists, DMPK experts, trainees and scientists from industry, academia, contract research organizations, biotech, pharma, research institutes, accelerators/incubators, foundations, and government with an interest in drug discovery area are all welcome.

Sunday, May 19, 2024

3:00 pm – 5:15 pm | Colloquium Keynote and Opening Session

5:15 pm – 7:15 pm | Colloquium Poster Presentations

Monday, May 20, 2024

8:30 am – 5:00 pm / Colloquium Program

Important Dates

May

16-19

ASPET Annual Meeting in Arlington, VA

May

19-20

ADDC/ASPET Colloquium

April

3-6

ASPET 2025 Annual Meeting
Portland, OR

May

17-20

ASPET 2026 Annual Meeting
Minneapolis, MN