Xuefeng Ren

Xuefeng Ren, PhD, MD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health at the University at Buffalo's School of Public Health and Health Professions. He joined the faculty in 2010 after completing postdoctoral training in toxicology at the University of California, Berkeley. His research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of heavy metal toxicity, epigenetic biomarkers of environmental exposure, and novel therapeutic approaches for environmental diseases. Dr. Ren holds a unique multidisciplinary background in medicine, toxicology, and cancer biology.

Education:

• MD, Baotou Medical College (1995)
• MS in Public Health, Fudan University (2001)
• PhD in Toxicology, University of Washington/Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (2007)
• Postdoctoral Fellow, University of California, Berkeley (2007-2009)

Research interests emphasize:

• Metal carcinogenesis mechanisms
• Genetic/epigenetic biomarkers
• FRY gene's role in cancer progression
• Alternative chelation therapies (e.g., GMDTC)
• Environmental exposure impacts on microbiome and metabolism

His work integrates lab-based studies with population health approaches.

Recent publications highlight advancements in cadmium detoxification mechanisms, arsenic-fluoride co-exposure effects, and telomere biology in toxicology. Dr. Ren has led NIH-funded studies exploring biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for environmental illnesses. His lab actively investigates the FRY gene's tumor suppression functions and epigenetic pathways in carcinogenesis.

Professional affiliations include the American Association for Cancer Research and Society of Toxicology. Research activities involve collaborations across toxicology, epidemiology, and translational medicine domains.