Dr. Dennis Liotta from the Emory Institute for Drug Development joined Roy Kessel and Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at Super Bowl. Dr. Liotta shared his insight into his groundbreaking work in drug development, including his contributions to HIV and Hepatitis C treatments, as well as his current research on therapeutics for brain injuries and concussions in athletes. He emphasized the importance of early intervention in traumatic brain injuries and discussed innovative approaches inspired by nature to improve brain protection and recovery.
Dennis Liotta
Dr. Dennis Liotta is a distinguished chemist and academic known for his groundbreaking contributions to drug discovery and pharmaceutical research. As a professor at Emory University, Liotta has played a pivotal role in developing antiviral therapies, particularly for HIV/AIDS. His research has significantly advanced medicinal chemistry, leading to the creation of several FDA-approved drugs that have improved the lives of millions worldwide. His expertise spans organic synthesis, nucleoside chemistry, and small-molecule drug development, making him one of the most influential figures in modern pharmaceutical science.
Beyond his academic contributions, Liotta has co-founded multiple biotechnology companies, leveraging his scientific expertise to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial drug development. He has been instrumental in the creation of successful pharmaceutical startups that focus on innovative treatments for infectious diseases, cancer, and inflammatory conditions. His entrepreneurial efforts have facilitated the translation of laboratory discoveries into viable medical treatments, reinforcing his reputation as a leader in both academia and the biotech industry.
Liotta’s impact extends beyond research and business; he is also a dedicated mentor and educator. Through his role at Emory, he has guided numerous students and researchers in the fields of chemistry and drug discovery, fostering the next generation of scientists. His commitment to education and innovation continues to shape the pharmaceutical landscape, ensuring that groundbreaking treatments remain at the forefront of modern medicine. His career exemplifies the intersection of scientific discovery, entrepreneurship, and education, highlighting his invaluable contributions to global health.
The Emory Institue for Drug Development
The Emory Institute for Drug Development (EIDD) is a leading research institution dedicated to discovering and advancing innovative therapeutics for infectious diseases and other global health challenges. Affiliated with Emory University, EIDD focuses on translating cutting-edge scientific discoveries into practical medical treatments, emphasizing small-molecule drug design and development. The institute has been instrumental in pioneering antiviral therapies, particularly for diseases such as influenza, hepatitis, and coronaviruses. By integrating academic research with industry expertise, EIDD plays a critical role in accelerating the drug development pipeline and addressing unmet medical needs worldwide.
One of the most notable achievements of EIDD is its contribution to the development of molnupiravir, an antiviral drug initially researched at the institute and later co-developed with pharmaceutical partners to combat COVID-19. This breakthrough underscores EIDD’s commitment to producing impactful, real-world solutions to emerging infectious diseases. The institute’s interdisciplinary approach combines medicinal chemistry, virology, and pharmacology to create novel treatments that can rapidly respond to global health crises. Through strategic partnerships with government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations, EIDD continues to expand its reach and influence in the biopharmaceutical field.
Beyond drug discovery, EIDD is also dedicated to education and mentorship, fostering the next generation of researchers and scientists. By providing training opportunities and collaborating with students, postdoctoral fellows, and academic professionals, the institute contributes to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences and translational medicine. EIDD’s mission aligns with Emory University’s broader commitment to public health and biomedical innovation, making it a crucial player in the fight against infectious diseases and a driving force in the future of global healthcare solutions.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:00 – 0:29 – Roy Kessel introduces Dr. Dennis Liotta on Radio Row at Super Bowl 59, highlighting his extensive career in drug development and inviting him to share his background and passion for medical research.
0:30 – 1:15 – Dr. Liotta explains how the HIV/AIDS crisis motivated him to enter drug development, leading to the creation of two major HIV drugs that remain frontline treatments today. He then expanded his work to Hepatitis B and C, including a cure for Hepatitis C developed by his company.
1:16 – 1:57 – He discusses his shift in focus from specific diseases to addressing broader issues, such as athlete injuries. His primary concern is brain injuries, particularly how to stabilize individuals immediately after concussions or traumatic brain injuries to prevent long-term damage.
1:58 – 3:15 – The conversation shifts to the complexities of brain injuries compared to other physical injuries. Unlike a broken bone or torn ligament, brain injuries lack clear diagnostics and treatments, making research in this area particularly challenging.
3:16 – 4:26 – Dr. Liotta emphasizes the importance of immediate intervention for brain injuries. While helmets and diagnostic tools are helpful, he believes the key to reducing damage is stopping inflammation immediately after an injury occurs.
4:27 – 5:15 – He highlights the difficulties of testing new treatments for brain injuries, as every case is unique due to genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. This complexity makes developing effective solutions a challenging, multi-step process.
5:16 – 6:29 – Dr. Liotta describes the step-by-step process of drug development, starting with laboratory testing, progressing to animal models (usually mice), and eventually moving to human trials if the results are promising.
6:30 – 7:40 – He addresses the public’s expectation for instant solutions, contrasting this with the reality of medical research, which takes years. He warns against quick-fix scams that prey on people’s desperation for fast answers.
7:41 – 9:03 – Dr. Liotta shares how his research has drawn inspiration from nature, particularly from pregnant women, who recover from brain injuries significantly better due to increased progesterone levels. This discovery has guided his team in developing neuroprotective treatments.
9:04 – 11:51 – The interview concludes with a discussion on applying these insights to traumatic brain injuries, followed by Roy Kessel thanking Dr. Liotta for his contributions. The conversation ends with an acknowledgment of his philanthropic impact in the field of brain injury therapeutics.
