Research in my lab examines how lifestyle, behavior, environmental exposures, and genes interact to influence disease pathogenesis, focusing on epigenetics, particularly DNA methylation, as a key biological mediator. Gene-environment interaction studies are essential in public health because they explain individual variability in disease susceptibility and response to environmental factors, enabling more effective prevention and intervention strategies.​

 

Epigenetics bridges “nature” (genes) and “nurture” (environment), providing insight into how external exposure can alter gene expression without altering changing DNA sequence. DNA methylation is especially important because it is dynamic, reversible, and regulates genes in biological pathways, including detoxification, oxidative stress, and inflammation, all core process in many chronic diseases. The research goal is to uncover how modifiable environmental, lifestyle, and behavioral factors leave lasting biological marks, ultimately advancing disease prevention and health promotion.​