Translational Dermato-Oncology
Glutsch group
The aim of our research is to gain a deeper understanding of tumor-specific signaling pathways and immunological interactions in order to derive novel approaches for targeted and immunotherapeutic treatment strategies. In this context, we specifically analyze the expression and functional relevance of surface antigens in relation to tumor progression and therapy resistance. Based on these findings, we evaluate innovative strategies to optimize and expand existing therapeutic options, particularly in advanced stages of disease. Experimental translational projects are conducted in close collaboration with the research group “Skin tumor biology” led by Dr. David Schrama.
Another key focus lies in addressing clinical questions in dermato-oncology. Through the integrative analysis of preclinical and clinical data, we aim to identify predictive biomarkers, validate therapeutic targets, and promote the translational implementation of novel treatment approaches into clinical practice. Research concepts are also pursued within the framework of clinical registries (ADO).
Selected publications
Goller S, Dege T, Schummer P, Haug L, Meir M, Gehrke T, Klein D, Goebeler M, Kneitz H, Schilling B, Gesierich A, Glutsch V. Perioperative Pembrolizumab in Locally Advanced Melanoma: A Real-world Single-centre Retrospective Study. Original research, Acta Derm Venereol. 2026 Jan 19;106:0009. doi: 10.2340/actadv.v106.adv-2025-0009.
Glutsch V, Schummer P, Goebeler M, Gesierich A, Schilling B. Re-exposition to ipilimumab plus nivolumab in metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma. Original research, Front Immunol. 2024 Dec 5;15:1495004. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1495004.
Glutsch V, Schummer P, Kneitz H, Gesierich A, Goebeler M, Posch V, Gebhardt C, Haferkamp S, Zimmer L, BeckerJC, Leiter U, Weichenthal M, Schadendorf D, UgurelS, Schilling B. Ipilimumab plus Nivolumab in Avelumab-refractory Merkel Cell Carcinoma – A Multicenter Study of the Prospective Skin Cancer Registry ADOREG. Original research, Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer 2022. doi: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005930.
Glutsch V, Wobser M, Schilling B, Gesierich A, Goebeler M, Kneitz H. PRAME Expression as Helpful Immunohistochemical Marker in Rhabdoid Melanoma. Original research, Dermatopathology 2022, 9, 148–157. doi.org/10.3390/dermatopathology9020019.
Glutsch V, Kneitz H, Gesierich A, Goebeler M, Haferkamp S, Becker JC, Ugurel S, Schilling B. Activity of ipilimumab plus nivolumab in avelumab-refractory Merkel cell carcinoma. Brief research report, Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2021 Jul;70(7):2087-2093. doi: 10.1007/s00262-020-02832-0.
Glutsch V, Amaral T, Garbe C, Thoms KM, Mohr P, Hauschlid A, Schilling B. Indirect comparison of combined BRAF and MEK inhibition in melanoma patients with elevated baseline lactate dehydrogenase. Original research, Acta Derm Venereol. 2020 Jun 11;100(13): adv00174. doi: 10.2340/00015555-3526.
Glutsch V, Kneitz H, Goebeler M, Gesierich A, Schilling B. Breaking Avelumab Resistance with combined Ipilimumab and Nivolumab in Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma? Letter to the Editor,Ann Oncol. 2019 Oct 1;30(10):1667-1668. doi: 10.1093/annonc/mdz230.
