Shanxi Medical University | China
Dr. Hongmei Zhang is a distinguished Professor at the School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, China. She is internationally recognized for her pioneering research on the neurotoxicity of environmental pollutants. Her primary focus is on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals, exploring how these substances affect brain development and function. Dr. Zhang has extensively investigated the mechanisms through which early-life exposure to PBDEs and PAHs results in irreversible neurodevelopmental toxicity. A central theme of her work is the ROS/RNS-calpain-cdk5/p25-Prxs-ROS/RNS feedback loop, which she has identified as a key pathway in pollutant-induced neuronal damage. Her studies also highlight the role of microglial activation in neuroinflammation, linking it to cognitive deficits caused by environmental toxins. She has uncovered important insights into BDNF gene methylation as a mediator of PAHs-induced cognitive dysfunction. Dr. Zhang has contributed over 50 peer-reviewed articles to high-impact journals, significantly advancing the field of environmental neurotoxicology. Her work has been cited approximately 795 times, reflecting the influence and relevance of her research. She holds an h-index of 18, indicating sustained scholarly impact. In addition to her research, she has trained numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. Dr. Zhang broadened her academic perspective as a visiting scholar at the University of Cincinnati in 2013–2014. She was promoted to full professor in 2019, recognizing her outstanding contributions to science and education. Her work is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and other leading institutions. Beyond laboratory research, she actively collaborates with national and international scholars. Her studies bridge molecular mechanisms with public health implications. Dr. Zhang is a frequent speaker at conferences, sharing insights on environmental risk assessment. She is committed to translating scientific findings into policies that protect vulnerable populations. Her research integrates neuroscience, toxicology, and epigenetics for a holistic understanding of environmental hazards. Through her career, Dr. Zhang has established herself as a leader in environmental neurotoxicity research, shaping the next generation of scientists.
Featured Publications
“The effect and mechanism of NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy in aluminum-induced ferroptosis of PC12 cells”.
“A novel ecological risk assessment method of potentially toxic elements based on soil nematode communities”.
“MiR-134-5p/BDNF/TrkB/CREB signaling pathway involved in the depression-like behaviors in mice following exposure to benzo[a]pyrene”.
“Sources and health risks of heavy metal(loid) contamination in farmland near Shanxi coal mines”.