Stephen Alexander

Stephen Alexander is an Associate Professor of Molecular Pharmacology at the University of Nottingham's Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences within the School of Life Sciences. His research focuses on the pharmacology and biochemistry of G protein-coupled receptors, particularly cannabinoid, adenosine and glutamate receptors, with significant contributions to the understanding of endocannabinoid signaling and drug mechanisms.

Dr. Alexander's research interests span several interconnected areas centered on receptor pharmacology and signaling. His primary work investigates the endogenous cannabinoid system, particularly its role in inflammation and pain pathways, with notable publications on vasoactivity of anandamide, neuroprotection via cannabinoid activation of PPARα, and regulation of dopaminergic neurotransmission. A significant portion of his research explores signaling cross-talk between different receptor systems and agonist bias at G protein-coupled receptors. Additional research areas include enzyme turnover of endocannabinoids, hydrogen sulphide signaling, and mitochondrial function in cell survival following drug exposure.

His publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on cannabinoid pharmacology and receptor signaling, with recent work emphasizing the endocannabinoid system's role in schizophrenia, novel endocannabinoid compounds, and the biochemical mechanisms underlying receptor signaling. The articles show a progression from basic receptor pharmacology to more complex systems biology approaches, with significant contributions to pharmacological reference works like the IUPHAR/BPS Guide to PHARMACOLOGY.

Dr. Alexander has been featured in multiple media outlets including BBC Radio Nottingham, BBC Radio 4, BBC Scotland, BBC News 24, BBC3, and BBC1, discussing topics related to cannabis, caffeine, and food science, demonstrating his ability to translate complex pharmacological concepts for public understanding.

His research methodology combines molecular pharmacology techniques with biochemical and physiological approaches, often working with isolated tissues, cultured cells, and enzyme assays. Current projects focus on signaling convergence through Epac pathways and the role of N-arachidonoylglycine in pancreatic insulin secretion, indicating continued active research in novel signaling pathways.