Gil Mor M.D., Ph.D. (ck4089)
University information
Contact information
C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development
C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development
275 E. Hancock
Detroit, MI 48201
https://mott.med.wayne.edu/mor-lab-home/
Gil Mor, M.D., Ph.D. Professor and Endowed Chair of Women’s Health Research Email: gmor@med.wayne.edu Phone: 313-577-1337 Gil Mor, M.D., Ph.D., holds the John M. Malone Jr. MD Endowed Chair of Women’s Health Research and serves as the Scientific Director of The C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development at Wayne State University. He is a tenured Professor and Vice Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and previously chaired the Department of Physiology. Prior to his tenure at Wayne State, Dr. Mor was a tenured Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Science at Yale University School of Medicine, where he directed the Reproductive Science Division and led the Reproductive Immunology Unit as well as the Translational Research Program “Discovery to Cure.” From 2009 to 2019, he served as Editor-in-Chief of the *American Journal of Reproductive Immunology* and held the same role for *Placenta* from 2020 to 2022. A past president of the American Society for Reproductive Immunology, Dr. Mor is a distinguished physician-scientist whose research focuses on the immunology of pregnancy and the role of inflammation in cancer development and progression. His interdisciplinary approach connects receptors, macrophages, cytokines, and decidua in the study of trophoblast-related issues, merging themes from endocrinology and oncology within the context of reproductive medicine. With over 350 peer-reviewed publications and more than 38,800 citations, Dr. Mor is widely recognized in the fields of immunology and reproduction. He has edited six books on topics including the immunology of pregnancy and apoptosis in cancer and serves as the Senior Editor of a book series on Reproductive Immunology with Elsevier. His research has garnered funding from prestigious institutions such as the National Institute of Child Health and Development (NICHD), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), along with support from several pharmaceutical companies. Dr. Mor has made significant contributions to understanding the immune system's role in pregnancy and reproductive health, developing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for ovarian cancer. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Harold Behrman Award from Yale University, the J. Christian Herr Award, the AJRI Award from the American Society for Reproductive Immunology, the Pearl River Professorship from Jinan University in Guangzhou, China, and the Kiril Bratanov Medal Award in Reproductive Immunology from the Bulgarian Reproductive Immunology Society. He is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and a member of the Academy of Scholars at Wayne State University. His professional affiliations include the American Association for Cancer Research, the Society for Gynecologic Investigation, the American Association of Immunologists, and the American Society of Reproductive Immunology. Dro Mor is a frequent national and international invited speaker by academic institutions and Societies worldwide. He also serves on the International Advisory Committee for the Sino-American Center of Translational Medicine at Southern Medical University in China and is an advisory professor at Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China, as well as an honorary member and professor of several scientific societies across Asia, South America, and Europe.
- 1993 Ph.D., Immunoendocrinology, Hormone Research Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- 1988 M.Sc., Neuroendocrinology, Neurology Department, Hadassah Hospital, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- 1987 M.D., Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
RCR 737
Citations: 38,674
Google h-index 106
i10 Index 281
World Top 2%
D-Index 99
World Ranking 690
National Ranking 398
Immunology of Pregnancy
Research Summary
The main objective of our studies is to understand the communication between the maternal and fetal components of pregnancy and how pathogens contribute to the disruption of this crosstalk leading to preterm labor. Research in our laboratory includes the following areas:
Trophoblast Biology. Trophoblast response and regulation to inflammatory responses.
Our previous work has demonstrated the expression of Toll-like receptors on trophoblast cells and ligation of these receptors produce a cytokine/chemokine network in response to either endogenous or exogenous stimuli at the maternal fetal interface. Therefore, trophoblast cells serve as sensors for the recognition and response to the environment throughout implantation and gestation, suggesting that the trophoblast itself might act as an innate immune cell by recognizing microbial products. We currently are investigating the tight regulation of TLR function and signaling in trophoblast and how this contributes to their immunological role.
Immune cells regulation and function at the maternal/fetal interface. Maternal/fetal macrophages’ role in tolerance to bacterial infections and response to persistent viral infections.
In recognizing and responding to the uterine microenvironment, trophoblast may recruit immune cells such as macrophages and regulate their distribution and function. We are currently investigating how trophoblast cells induce differentiation of macrophages into mmresponse to bacteria to prevent an inflammatory response.
Infection in Pregnancy. Mechanisms of immune, placental and decidual responses to pathogens leading to preterm labor. In vivo model of preterm in polymicrobial disease.
The laboratory is actively investigating how viral infection may disrupt the fetal-maternal interaction by modifying the function of TLRs. Our studies have shown that a viral infection of the placenta and decidua will lead to a disruption in immune cell distribution and function and consequently preterm labor. To further understand the role of infection in pregnancy we have developed an in vivo model looking at the mechanisms in polymicrobial disease at the maternal/fetal interface and preterm labor.
Ovarian Cancer Program
Research Summary
The objectives of the laboratory are to understand the role of ovarian cancer stem cells in the process of tumor formation, recurrence and chemoresistance. Research in our laboratory includes the following areas:
Origin of Ovarian Cancer. Identifying the signals originating from the ovaries that have the capacity to attract malignant tumor-initiating cells
We are currently investigating the origin of ovarian cancer. Studies in the laboratory have shown that tumor-initiating cells are attracted to the ovaries following ovulation and once the malignant cells reach the ovaries the ovaries are able to provide a “fertile soil” that can support tumor initiation. These findings have opened the opportunity for the development of new venues to prevent ovarian cancer by inhibiting the factors associated with the recruitment of transformed cells towards the ovaries. Furthermore, it has provided the identification of new markers for early detection.
We have developed a unique in vivo model for Stage I and II ovarian cancer.
Recurrence and chemoresistance. Identifying cancer stem cells as the source of chemoresistance and recurrence.
Another pressing question in the field of ovarian cancer research is why recurrent ovarian cancer does not respond to the therapy that was initially successful in inducing remission in the primary disease. Previous work in our laboratory has identified and characterized two types of ovarian cancer cells comprising a heterogeneous tumor and these two cell types respond differently to chemotherapies. We have identified a subgroup of cancer stem cells that promote the development of chemoresistance and metastasis during the process of ovarian cancer recurrence. Ongoing research is directed to develop therapeutic modalities aiming to reverse this resistance.
In vivo model of recurrence. We have developed an intra-peritoneal (i.p.) recurrent ovarian cancer animal model that mimics the clinical profile observed in patients with EOC.
This animal model has allowed the identification of key factors involved in the promotion of metastasis and chemoresistance. Using this model we have identified specific chemotherapy-induced tumor modifications that contribute to the development of metastasis and chemoresistance. The Mor Lab has established an active drug screening system for the identification of novel compounds that can prevent recurrence and target chemoresistant recurrent disease. In addition our model has allowed identification of markers for predicting chemoresponse and therefore can aid in therapy selection or Personalized Medicine, which is a major objective of Dr. Mor’s laboratory.
This animal model is currently being used to develop a novel drug delivery system that specifically targets tumor blood vessels and not normal blood vessels
Tumor Immune Interactions. We have established the differential interaction of ovarian cancer cells with immune cells.
Our studies have shown that ovarian cancer stem cells modulate macrophage differentiation and function through the expression of unique modulatory cytokines while ovarian cancer cells promote Treg recruitment and function. These findings revealed a complex tumor immune interaction based on cancer cell type specific signals.
Reproductive Immunology
Tumor Immunology
Ovarian Cancer
Placenta
Trophoblast biology
Infections and pregnancy
A conplete list of Dr. Mor's publications can be found at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Mor+G
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Scientific Director, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development
Vice Chair of Research
John M. Malone Jr., M.D. Endowed Professor
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Wayne State University School of Medicine
Joint Appointments:
Past President - American Society for Reproductive Immunology
Editor Journal Placenta
Professor of Physiology, Bochemistry Microbiology and Immunology
Wayne State University
C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development
275 E. Hancock
Detroit, MI 48201
Academic Awards
2018 Pearl River Professor. Jinan University Guangzhou China
2015 “Kiril Bratanov Medal Award” in Reproductive Immunology. Varna Bulgaria
2015 Guest Professor, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan China
2011 Honorary Professor, Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Xi’An
2012 American Journal of Reproductive Immunology Award, American Society for Reproductive Immunology
2008 Harold Behrman Award, Yale University
2007 J. Christian Herr Award, American Society of Reproductive Immunology
2008 Harold Behrman Award, Yale University
- 1993 Ph.D., Immunoendocrinology, Hormone Research Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- 1988 M.Sc., Neuroendocrinology, Neurology Department, Hadassah Hospital, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- 1987 M.D., Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
- 1994-96 Postdoctoral Fellow (Immunobiology), Center for Biologics Evaluation & Research, FDA, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
- 1991 Fellowship, Reproductive Endocrinology, Max-Planck Institut fur Experimental Endocrinologie, Hanover, Germany
- 1990-93 Reproductive Endocrinology (clinical training), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaplan Hospital, Rehovot, Israel
- 1988-93 PhD thesis research (mentor: Prof. Fortune Kohen), Dept, of Hormone Research, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- 1986-88 M.Sc. thesis research (mentor: Prof. Shaul Feldman). Neurology Dept., Hadassah Hospital, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
Past Academic Appointments:
Professor, Tenure, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
Director, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
Editor in Chief American Journal of Reproductive Immunology
Immunology of Pregnancy
Research Summary
The main objective of our studies is to understand the communication between the maternal and fetal components of pregnancy and how pathogens contribute to the disruption of this crosstalk leading to preterm labor. Research in our laboratory includes the following areas:
Trophoblast Biology. Trophoblast response and regulation to inflammatory responses.
Our previous work has demonstrated the expression of Toll-like receptors on trophoblast cells and ligation of these receptors produce a cytokine/chemokine network in response to either endogenous or exogenous stimuli at the maternal fetal interface. Therefore, trophoblast cells serve as sensors for the recognition and response to the environment throughout implantation and gestation, suggesting that the trophoblast itself might act as an innate immune cell by recognizing microbial products. We currently are investigating the tight regulation of TLR function and signaling in trophoblast and how this contributes to their immunological role.
Immune cells regulation and function at the maternal/fetal interface. Maternal/fetal macrophages’ role in tolerance to bacterial infections and response to persistent viral infections.
In recognizing and responding to the uterine microenvironment, trophoblast may recruit immune cells such as macrophages and regulate their distribution and function. We are currently investigating how trophoblast cells induce differentiation of macrophages into mmresponse to bacteria to prevent an inflammatory response.
Infection in Pregnancy. Mechanisms of immune, placental and decidual responses to pathogens leading to preterm labor. In vivo model of preterm in polymicrobial disease.
The laboratory is actively investigating how viral infection may disrupt the fetal-maternal interaction by modifying the function of TLRs. Our studies have shown that a viral infection of the placenta and decidua will lead to a disruption in immune cell distribution and function and consequently preterm labor. To further understand the role of infection in pregnancy we have developed an in vivo model looking at the mechanisms in polymicrobial disease at the maternal/fetal interface and preterm labor.
Ovarian Cancer Program
Research Summary
The objectives of the laboratory are to understand the role of ovarian cancer stem cells in the process of tumor formation, recurrence and chemoresistance. Research in our laboratory includes the following areas:
Origin of Ovarian Cancer. Identifying the signals originating from the ovaries that have the capacity to attract malignant tumor-initiating cells
We are currently investigating the origin of ovarian cancer. Studies in the laboratory have shown that tumor-initiating cells are attracted to the ovaries following ovulation and once the malignant cells reach the ovaries the ovaries are able to provide a “fertile soil” that can support tumor initiation. These findings have opened the opportunity for the development of new venues to prevent ovarian cancer by inhibiting the factors associated with the recruitment of transformed cells towards the ovaries. Furthermore, it has provided the identification of new markers for early detection.
We have developed a unique in vivo model for Stage I and II ovarian cancer.
Recurrence and chemoresistance. Identifying cancer stem cells as the source of chemoresistance and recurrence.
Another pressing question in the field of ovarian cancer research is why recurrent ovarian cancer does not respond to the therapy that was initially successful in inducing remission in the primary disease. Previous work in our laboratory has identified and characterized two types of ovarian cancer cells comprising a heterogeneous tumor and these two cell types respond differently to chemotherapies. We have identified a subgroup of cancer stem cells that promote the development of chemoresistance and metastasis during the process of ovarian cancer recurrence. Ongoing research is directed to develop therapeutic modalities aiming to reverse this resistance.
In vivo model of recurrence. We have developed an intra-peritoneal (i.p.) recurrent ovarian cancer animal model that mimics the clinical profile observed in patients with EOC.
This animal model has allowed the identification of key factors involved in the promotion of metastasis and chemoresistance. Using this model we have identified specific chemotherapy-induced tumor modifications that contribute to the development of metastasis and chemoresistance. The Mor Lab has established an active drug screening system for the identification of novel compounds that can prevent recurrence and target chemoresistant recurrent disease. In addition our model has allowed identification of markers for predicting chemoresponse and therefore can aid in therapy selection or Personalized Medicine, which is a major objective of Dr. Mor’s laboratory.
This animal model is currently being used to develop a novel drug delivery system that specifically targets tumor blood vessels and not normal blood vessels
Tumor Immune Interactions. We have established the differential interaction of ovarian cancer cells with immune cells.
Our studies have shown that ovarian cancer stem cells modulate macrophage differentiation and function through the expression of unique modulatory cytokines while ovarian cancer cells promote Treg recruitment and function. These findings revealed a complex tumor immune interaction based on cancer cell type specific signals.
A conplete list of Dr. Mor's publications can be found at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Mor+G
Lab website: https://mott.med.wayne.edu/mor-lab-home/
Physiology
C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development
275 E. Hancock
Detroit, MI 48201
John M. Malone Jr. MD, Endowed Chair and Scientific Director of The C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Vice Chair for Research-Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
President-American Society for Reproductive Immunology
Editor Journal Placenta
Professor of Physiology, Bochemistry Microbiology and Immunology
Wayne State University
Lab website: mott.med.wayne.edu/riu
Immunology of Pregnancy
Research Summary
The main objective of our studies is to understand the communication between the maternal and fetal components of pregnancy and how pathogens contribute to the disruption of this crosstalk leading to preterm labor. Research in our laboratory includes the following areas:
Trophoblast Biology. Trophoblast response and regulation to inflammatory responses.
Our previous work has demonstrated the expression of Toll-like receptors on trophoblast cells and ligation of these receptors produce a cytokine/chemokine network in response to either endogenous or exogenous stimuli at the maternal fetal interface. Therefore, trophoblast cells serve as sensors for the recognition and response to the environment throughout implantation and gestation, suggesting that the trophoblast itself might act as an innate immune cell by recognizing microbial products. We currently are investigating the tight regulation of TLR function and signaling in trophoblast and how this contributes to their immunological role.
Immune cells regulation and function at the maternal/fetal interface. Maternal/fetal macrophages’ role in tolerance to bacterial infections and response to persistent viral infections.
In recognizing and responding to the uterine microenvironment, trophoblast may recruit immune cells such as macrophages and regulate their distribution and function. We are currently investigating how trophoblast cells induce differentiation of macrophages into mmresponse to bacteria to prevent an inflammatory response.
Infection in Pregnancy. Mechanisms of immune, placental and decidual responses to pathogens leading to preterm labor. In vivo model of preterm in polymicrobial disease.
The laboratory is actively investigating how viral infection may disrupt the fetal-maternal interaction by modifying the function of TLRs. Our studies have shown that a viral infection of the placenta and decidua will lead to a disruption in immune cell distribution and function and consequently preterm labor. To further understand the role of infection in pregnancy we have developed an in vivo model looking at the mechanisms in polymicrobial disease at the maternal/fetal interface and preterm labor.
Ovarian Cancer Program
Research Summary
The objectives of the laboratory are to understand the role of ovarian cancer stem cells in the process of tumor formation, recurrence and chemoresistance. Research in our laboratory includes the following areas:
Origin of Ovarian Cancer. Identifying the signals originating from the ovaries that have the capacity to attract malignant tumor-initiating cells
We are currently investigating the origin of ovarian cancer. Studies in the laboratory have shown that tumor-initiating cells are attracted to the ovaries following ovulation and once the malignant cells reach the ovaries the ovaries are able to provide a “fertile soil” that can support tumor initiation. These findings have opened the opportunity for the development of new venues to prevent ovarian cancer by inhibiting the factors associated with the recruitment of transformed cells towards the ovaries. Furthermore, it has provided the identification of new markers for early detection.
We have developed a unique in vivo model for Stage I and II ovarian cancer.
Recurrence and chemoresistance. Identifying cancer stem cells as the source of chemoresistance and recurrence.
Another pressing question in the field of ovarian cancer research is why recurrent ovarian cancer does not respond to the therapy that was initially successful in inducing remission in the primary disease. Previous work in our laboratory has identified and characterized two types of ovarian cancer cells comprising a heterogeneous tumor and these two cell types respond differently to chemotherapies. We have identified a subgroup of cancer stem cells that promote the development of chemoresistance and metastasis during the process of ovarian cancer recurrence. Ongoing research is directed to develop therapeutic modalities aiming to reverse this resistance.
In vivo model of recurrence. We have developed an intra-peritoneal (i.p.) recurrent ovarian cancer animal model that mimics the clinical profile observed in patients with EOC.
This animal model has allowed the identification of key factors involved in the promotion of metastasis and chemoresistance. Using this model we have identified specific chemotherapy-induced tumor modifications that contribute to the development of metastasis and chemoresistance. The Mor Lab has established an active drug screening system for the identification of novel compounds that can prevent recurrence and target chemoresistant recurrent disease. In addition our model has allowed identification of markers for predicting chemoresponse and therefore can aid in therapy selection or Personalized Medicine, which is a major objective of Dr. Mor’s laboratory.
This animal model is currently being used to develop a novel drug delivery system that specifically targets tumor blood vessels and not normal blood vessels
Tumor Immune Interactions. We have established the differential interaction of ovarian cancer cells with immune cells.
Our studies have shown that ovarian cancer stem cells modulate macrophage differentiation and function through the expression of unique modulatory cytokines while ovarian cancer cells promote Treg recruitment and function. These findings revealed a complex tumor immune interaction based on cancer cell type specific signals.
A conplete list of Dr. Mor's publications can be found at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Mor+G
- 1994-96 Postdoctoral Fellow (Immunobiology), Center for Biologics Evaluation & Research, FDA, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
- 1991 Fellowship, Reproductive Endocrinology, Max-Planck Institut fur Experimental Endocrinologie, Hanover, Germany
- 1990-93 Reproductive Endocrinology (clinical training), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaplan Hospital, Rehovot, Israel
- 1988-93 PhD thesis research (mentor: Prof. Fortune Kohen), Dept, of Hormone Research, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- 1986-88 M.Sc. thesis research (mentor: Prof. Shaul Feldman). Neurology Dept., Hadassah Hospital, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
2018 Pearl River Professor. Jinan University Guangzhou China
2015 “Kiril Bratanov Medal Award” in Reproductive Immunology. Varna Bulgaria
2015 Guest Professor, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan China
2011 Honorary Professor, Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Xi’An
2012 American Journal of Reproductive Immunology Award, American Society for Reproductive Immunology
2008 Harold Behrman Award, Yale University
2007 J. Christian Herr Award, American Society of Reproductive Immunology
2008 Harold Behrman Award, Yale University
- 1993 Ph.D., Immunoendocrinology, Hormone Research Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- 1988 M.Sc., Neuroendocrinology, Neurology Department, Hadassah Hospital, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- 1987 M.D., Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
