On the Heights: February 2026
February highlights include faculty expertise on AI-driven cancer research, youth violence prevention, farmworker housing policy, epigenetics and ultra-processed foods, and a new state advisory appointment.
Toxicology Results
Epigenetics: Making sense of nutritional triggers
Dana Dolinoy discusses her work on the Michigan Minds podcast
Epigenetics, the study of how environmental and behavioral factors modify gene expression, helps explain how what we eat influences our health.
Cumulative lead exposure linked to increased Alzheimer's and dementia risk, U-M study finds
Researchers show bone lead from past environmental exposures increases dementia risk in older US adults
New U-M research reveals older adults with high cumulative lead exposure face nearly triple the Alzheimer's risk. The study suggests reducing population lead levels could prevent thousands of dementia cases annually.
Uncovering hidden dangers: How environmental research can prevent cancer
Justin Colacino, an environmental health researcher at Michigan Public Health, uncovers how environmental exposures can cause cancer. His research aims to pinpoint the root causes of cancer, leveraging powerful data and tools to prevent harmful cellular changes before they start.
Living near harmful algal blooms reduces life expectancy with ALS
Living close to cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms, which are present nationwide but are more common in coastal and Great Lakes states, heightens the rate of dying from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, a Michigan Public Health study suggests.
On the Heights: April 2025
Departmental news, research highlights, community achievements, and more to help you stay connected with the Michigan Public Health community.