Imaging GPCRs in Action: Chemical Probes for Next-Level Discovery | Dr. Johannes Broichhagen #178

Chemical probes are reshaping how we map GLP-1R in real time — revealing receptor pools antibodies can’t reliably capture.

This is Episode 2 of a 3-part GPCR tool-development series created in partnership with Celtarys Research.

Summary:

Dr. Johannes Broichhagen aka JB breaks down the design logic behind fluorophore-linked peptides, assay trade-offs, and what true receptor internalization looks like in live tissue. A concise masterclass in assay development and GPCR drug discovery.

What you’ll learn:

• Why antibody variability pushed JB toward chemical probe engineering

• The design logic behind Luxendin-based fluorescent tools — and how structure guides function

• What “good assay development” looks like when cells, tissue, and probe behavior collide

• Behind-the-scenes stories from the collaboration with David Hodson

• Why parallelized experiments matter for reproducibility and signal quality

• How small-molecule probes outperform antibodies in live-cell and tissue imaging

• The surprising breakthroughs that shifted JB’s entire research trajectory

• Future directions: multi-color GPCR mapping, AI-guided ligand design, and in vivo chemical biology

Dr GPCR Links & Resources:

• Dr. GPCR Ecosystem: https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/

• Membership & Pricing: https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/university-pricing• Weekly News: https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/gpcr-weekly-news