Nobel Laureate Brian Kobilka, MD, highlighted cutting-edge research on GPCRs; over 100 posters featured in annual Academic Showcase
On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, WashU Medicine’s Department of Anesthesiology proudly hosted its 37th Annual C.R. Stephen Lecture at the Eric P. Newman Education Center. This distinguished lecture series honors the legacy of C. Ronald Stephen, MD, FFARCS—the department’s inaugural chair in 1971—and the late William D. Owens, MD, a respected professor emeritus and former department head who established the lecture in 1988.
This year’s lecture was delivered by Brian Kobilka, MD, Hélène Irwin Fagan Chair of Cardiology and Professor of Molecular & Cellular Physiology at Stanford University School of Medicine. A Nobel Laureate recognized for his pioneering discoveries in G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) biology, Kobilka presented a compelling lecture titled “G Protein Coupled Receptors: Challenges and New Approaches to Drug Discovery.”
His talk provided an overview of how GPCRs—proteins that help cells respond to hormones, neurotransmitters, and sensory signals—function at the molecular level. He also discussed the challenges scientists face in developing therapies that precisely target these receptors. Using the μ-opioid receptor as an example, Kobilka shared recent discoveries from his lab showing how these receptors can send different signals depending on the molecules they interact with. These insights could lead to the development of safer, more targeted treatments for a range of conditions.
“Dr. Kobilka is a remarkably humble physician-scientist whose work unlocked one of the most fundamental secrets in biology. He is truly one of those rare individuals who has changed the world by transforming our understanding of cellular signaling and revolutionizing the field of drug development.”
Michael S. Avidan, MBBCh, FCA SA, head of the Department of Anesthesiology
Prior to the lecture, the department hosted its annual Academic Showcase, featuring over 100 poster presentations from faculty, clinicians, researchers, trainees, and staff. The Showcase served as an open platform for all members of the department to share their work, exchange ideas, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Posters spanned a wide range of topics—including basic and clinical research, education initiatives, and quality improvement efforts—and reflected both emerging discoveries and ongoing commitments to advancing patient care.
“The Academic Showcase was a great opportunity to share early findings from our pilot study on GLP-1 agonists effects on chronic low back pain in people with obesity,” said Professor of Anesthesiology, Burel Goodin, PhD. “Just as rewarding was hearing from our trainees and junior faculty—their energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives are what keep our field moving forward.”
More than just a celebration of academic achievement, the C.R. Stephen Lecture and Academic Showcase brought together a vibrant community of learners, leaders, and innovators. Together, the events reflected the department’s enduring commitment to curiosity, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence in anesthesiology.
