Gary L. Clayman, DMD, MD

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Gary L. Clayman, DMD, MD is the Alando J. Ballantyne Distinguished Professor of Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Director of the Head and Neck Cancer Research Program. He received his undergraduate and dental education at Case Western Reserve University and received his M.D. from Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Following Residency at the University of Minnesota and Fellowship at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, he has remained on staff at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and serves as the Deputy Head of the Division of Surgery for the institution. His clinical practices focuses upon thyroid and parathyroid neoplastic processes and emphasizes patients with complex recurrent thyroid surgery approaches.

Dr. Clayman’s research focus has spanned basic translational and research trials. His research led to the discovery of a novel 12-mer peptide being developed for targeted therapy and diagnostic approaches in head and neck cancer. Gene discovery efforts which were initiated in the mid 1990’s have led to the identification and characterization of three novel genes including headpin, BRAK, and LEKTI. Headpin and LEKTI are both novel serine proteinase inhibitors whose expression is lost in tumors of both MRNA and protein levels compared to non-malignant oral mucosa. Significant discoveries pertaining to the characterization of the biologic implication of these genes and gene products are forthcoming.

Dr. Clayman is supported through the NIH and NCI and serves as co-Principle Investigator at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Head and Neck Cancer SPORE P50CA97007.