Hong Sun, PhD, ScD

My research primarily focuses on the epigenetic regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and malignant transformation by environmental toxic metals, as well as their impact on human diseases. Our studies have demonstrated that hexavalent chromium, a group I human carcinogen, can modulate epigenetic programming by targeting histone modification enzymes. This targeting leads to the silencing of crucial tumor suppressor genes, thereby promoting cell transformation and carcinogenesis. Our ongoing research employs in vitro cultured cells, 3D tissue organoids, and genetically modified mouse models to investigate the mechanisms of metal-induced lung carcinogenesis. 

Recently, we initiated a new study to explore the effects of hexavalent chromium exposure on skeletal muscle development, health, and regeneration. This area is relatively new and largely understudied. Our recent findings showed that chromium exposure inhibited myogenic differentiation in both C2C12 myoblasts (in vitro) and freshly isolated satellite cells (ex vivo). Future studies will integrate multiple levels of analysis to investigate the impact of chromium exposure on embryonic myogenesis and adult muscle regeneration in vivo, as well as the potential involvement of epigenetic mechanisms.