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Genes and Environmental Health/Toxicology
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Racial/ethnic differences as surrogate markers for describing risk for disease on a genomic level is becoming increasingly common in both clinical practice and research settings. It is vital to understand the populations at risks of health disparities based on genetic and environmental health.
Introduction
Genes and environmental factors influence common human diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer. In order to better understand the prevalence of risk factors for disease, disorders and conditions in minorities it is vital to understand the genetic and environmental factors involved. Dr. Hood’s laboratory at Meharry Medical College has studied the maximum allowable ambient levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon emissions from industrial smokestacks. The findings of his studies have influenced public policy changes serve to decrease the adverse health effects associated with in utero environmental exposures in minority populations.
Sources: Bamshad M. Genetic influences on health: does race matter? JAMA. 2005;294(8):937-946. Stokes SC, Hood DB, Zokovitch J, Close FT. Blueprint for communicating risk and preventing environmental injustice. J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2010 Feb;21(1):35-52.
Objectives
Promote a better understanding of the link between genetics and environmental factors on disease, disorder and conditions in minorities.
Facilitate the cross cluster collaborations on the role of genetics and environmental factors on neurological, cardiovascular and immunological diseases.
Develop in collaboration with the DTCC additional multi-site research projects across disciplines that will capitalize on emerging technologic advances and unique resources.
Scientific Leadership
Dr. Paul Tchounwou JSU
Dr. Barbara Hayes Texas SU
Cluster Scientists
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