Dr. Wei Zheng received his B.S. in Pharmacy and M.S. in Pharmacology from Zhejiang University and his Ph.D. in Toxicology from University of Arizona. He was an Assistant Professor and later Associate Professor in School of Public Health at Columbia University in New York City (1993-2003). He joined Purdue University in 2003 and became a Full Professor in 2006. In 2008, Dr. Zheng took the position as the Head of the School of Health Sciences. He is a toxicologist specialized in metal-induced neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and essential tremors.

Molecular mechanisms, biomarkers and chelation therapy of manganese (Mn)-induced Parkinsonian disorder. Molecular mechanisms by which lead (Pb) exposure alters brain transport and homeostasis of beta-amyloid, which contributes to the etiology of Alzheimer’s disease. Adult neurogenesis in metal-induced neurotoxicities and contributions of brain barrier systems in adult neurogenesis. Transport of substances (metals, polypeptides, and drug molecules) by the blood-brain barrier and blood-CSF barrier. Integrity of brain barriers in neurodegenerative diseases and obesity-associated neurobehavioral alterations.