Prof. Charles Wang | Loma Linda University Center for Genomics | United States
Dr. Changhong Wang (now known as Dr. C. Wang), a U.S. citizen, is a distinguished molecular toxicologist and genomic scientist currently serving as Director and Tenured Professor at the Center for Genomics, Loma Linda University. Originally from China, Dr. Wang holds dual graduate degrees in Public Health and Toxicology from Tongji Medical University and the University of Washington, respectively. His early career laid the foundation for pivotal research into environmental toxicants and gene-environment interactions. Dr. Wang has significantly contributed to the understanding of xenobiotic metabolism, DNA methylation, and the transgenerational effects of toxins and epigenetics. His leadership in molecular genetics research is reflected in numerous peer-reviewed publications and competitive grants. A passionate educator and mentor, Dr. Wang’s work bridges foundational science and clinical application, marking him as a strong contender for the Research for Distinguished Scientist Award.
Publication Profile:
Education:
Dr. Wang received his Ph.D. in Toxicology from the University of Washington, Seattle. His doctoral work focused on aflatoxin metabolism and liver glutathione S-transferases in nonhuman primates, mentored by Dr. David L. Eaton. Prior to that, he earned an MPH in Environmental Epidemiology from Tongji Medical University, China, where he developed a foundation in public health and environmental sciences. His dual training in toxicology and epidemiology provided a unique cross-disciplinary approach to health sciences. This strong academic background enables Dr. Wang to address critical questions regarding how environmental exposures affect human health, especially through epigenetic and genomic pathways. His educational path reflects a continuous pursuit of scientific excellence and translational impact, positioning him to bridge molecular discoveries with public health relevance—a crucial quality for a candidate of the Distinguished Scientist Award.
Experience:
Dr. Wang currently serves as Director and Tenured Professor at the Center for Genomics, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University (LLU), where he has led translational and mechanistic genomic research. His responsibilities span academic leadership, mentorship, and collaborative research within the Division of Molecular Genetics. Prior to this, he held the role of Associate Professor-Adjunct in Microbiology & Molecular Genetics at LLU. His earlier roles include postdoctoral and research scientist positions at institutions where he investigated environmental carcinogens, drug metabolism, and gene expression. Over three decades, Dr. Wang has built a multidisciplinary portfolio in toxicology, environmental health, and genomics. He is a leading voice in DNA methylation, epigenetic inheritance, and cancer biology. His integrative research style and administrative skills have allowed him to create impactful programs that foster innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration—an essential trait for any distinguished scientist.
Awards and Honors:
Dr. Wang’s academic journey has been decorated with prestigious accolades from the outset. He received the Excellent Medical Student Award and Distinguished Graduate Student Award from Tongji Medical University. His pioneering research at the University of Washington earned him the First-Place Graduate Award for Research Excellence from the Society of Toxicology in New Orleans. He was awarded multiple Student Travel Awards from the University of Washington’s School of Public Health. These early recognitions underscore his long-standing commitment to scientific excellence and innovation. Dr. Wang’s later career has been marked by continuous success in publication, grant acquisition, and institutional leadership. These honors reflect both peer recognition and academic merit, reinforcing his status as a credible and outstanding candidate for the Research for Distinguished Scientist Award.
Research Focus:
Dr. Wang’s research focuses on environmental toxicology, genomics, and epigenetics, particularly in the context of transgenerational health effects. He investigates how toxicants such as cadmium, aflatoxin B1, and p,p’-DDE affect gene regulation through epigenetic reprogramming. His lab has pioneered work on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and miRNA signatures in diseases like cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, and diabetes. Recent work has addressed the effects of e-cigarette exposure on neonatal brain methylomes and the epigenetic inheritance of addiction vulnerability. Dr. Wang also explores copy number variation and drug resistance mechanisms in oncology, using cutting-edge tools like single-cell RNA sequencing and patient-derived models. His integrative, multi-omics approach allows for deep mechanistic insights and clinical translation. His ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in high-impact research areas demonstrates both visionary thinking and the technical prowess necessary for distinguished scientific leadership.
Publications Top Notes:
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Cadmium-induced negative calcium balance in multiparous birth women
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Effect of cadmium on bone calcium in nonpregnant mice: Direct evidence on bone
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Cadmium’s impact on bone calcium in mouse dams: Itai-Itai-like syndrome model
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Induction of drug-metabolizing enzymes by BHA, ethoxyquin, and oltipraz
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Diquat and ciprofibrate effects on hepatic enzyme expression
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Mu-class GSTs mediate aflatoxin B1 epoxide conjugation in Macaca liver
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CYP1B1 expression analyzed in human tissues via hybridization techniques
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Cloning and characterization of alpha-class GSTs from Macaca liver
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Proteomic comparison of hepatocyte preparation methods
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CYP3A41B polymorphism linked to puberty onset and breast cancer risk*
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Dr. Wang’s long-standing academic excellence, innovative research in toxicogenomics, and his leadership in advancing our understanding of environmental and epigenetic factors in disease clearly distinguish him as an outstanding scientist. His achievements fulfill and surpass the expectations for the Research for Distinguished Scientist Award. His profile reflects not only a deep commitment to rigorous science but also a visionary approach to public health and molecular research. With minor expansion in global engagement and translational outreach, Dr. Wang’s impact could be even more far-reaching. He is highly recommended for this honor.