Olivier Gires

Prof. Dr. Olivier Gires is a faculty member at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, serving as Professor in the Faculty of Medicine with primary affiliation in the Department of Head and Neck Research within the Clinic and Policlinic of Otorhinolaryngology. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of tumor progression in head and neck cancers.

Dr. Gires' research interests center on tumor cell dissemination processes, particularly EGFR-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). His laboratory investigates how EGFR signaling strength and duration determine cellular outcomes between proliferation and EMT, with specific focus on transcription factors like SLUG that regulate cancer cell migration and invasion. The research employs advanced 3D models, live cell imaging, photo-conversion techniques, and RNA sequencing approaches to identify molecular determinants of cancer dissemination.

Analysis of Dr. Gires' publications reveals a consistent focus on molecular oncology with emphasis on EGFR signaling pathways in HNSCC. His work bridges basic molecular mechanisms with potential clinical applications, particularly in understanding how tumor cells disseminate and identifying potential therapeutic targets. The research demonstrates strong integration of cellular models with patient cohort validation to develop prognostic signatures.

Dr. Gires actively supervises doctoral research, currently leading a project on EGFR-mediated tumor cell dissemination in HNSCC. His laboratory utilizes innovative approaches including photoconvertible fluorescence-tagged HNSCC cell lines to isolate and sequence invasive versus sessile cell populations. The research group collaborates with clinical departments to validate findings in primary patient samples.

The research group operates within the Department of Head and Neck Research at LMU's Clinic and Policlinic of Otorhinolaryngology, employing sophisticated 3D modeling techniques, live cell imaging, and genomic approaches to study cancer cell dissemination mechanisms. Their work integrates basic research with translational applications through analysis of in-house patient cohorts and publicly available datasets.