John Janetzko

Research Synopsis

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) for hormones and neurotransmitters evolved to be the most important means of communication between cells and tissues in higher organisms. They are responsive to a wide range of stimuli, from light to small molecules and proteins. This tremendous functional versatility is accomplished by a common seven-transmembrane structure. As a result of their extensive influence over human physiology and behavior, more than 30% of FDA-approved drugs today target GPCRs. Yet, over half of non-olfactory GPCRs have not been therapeutically targeted. My long-term goal is to understand the molecular mechanisms governing the function and regulation of GPCRs and leverage this to develop new strategies for targeting GPCRs in human disease. To accomplish this, we are using a range of approaches, from cryo-EM and single-molecule imaging to protein engineering. It is from these mechanistic insights that I believe we will develop the next generation of therapeutics for targeting GPCR signaling.

Publications

For a complete list of publications, please click here.

Select Awards

• ASPET Division of Molecular Pharmacology Early Career Scientist Award (Stanford), 2024
• National Institutes of Health: National Institute of General Medical Science (NIGMS) K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award (Stanford), 2022-2027
• Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship (Stanford), 2018
• Stanford School of Medicine Dean’s Postdoctoral Fellowship (Stanford), 2018