The Banfield Lab addresses fundamental questions in pathogen-host interactions at the molecular level. A long-standing interest of the group is the study of structure/function relationships in effector proteins from pathogens of mammals and plants. Effector proteins are molecules secreted from pathogens that either localize outside of or are translocated into host cells where they act to promote pathogen colonization. We also study the host side of plant immunity, or how plants respond to pathogens. Through the use of biochemical, biophysical and structural studies, we form hypotheses that are then tested in more in vivo settings. Ultimately, in addition to making fundamental discoveries concerning mechanisms of pathogen virulence, many of our studies are aimed at engineering plants to better resist infection by pathogens, improving performance in agriculture with a reduced need for chemical interventions.

Research interest includes on structure and function of macromolecules in a range of biological systems. This enables us to manipulate enzymes, proteins, carbohydrates, small molecules and DNA of agronomic, environmental and industrial importance.