Dr. C Constabel

Biography

C. Peter Constabel is a professor at the University of Victoria, specializing in the fields of Biochemistry and Plant Biology. His research focuses on how plants utilize biochemistry to defend against pests and pathogens and adapt to environmental stresses. The lab investigates plant stress responses, which involve rapid changes in gene expression leading to the synthesis of bioactive phytochemicals. A significant part of his work addresses the regulation and function of plant tannins and the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds found in trees. These compounds have important implications for ecosystem health and human nutrition, as they are present in many native berries, nuts, and whole foods. The lab employs genetically transformed poplar trees as a model to explore the pathways involved in tannin and phenolic production, aiming to elucidate novel biochemical pathways that could have potential therapeutic relevance.

Research Interests

Courses