We focus broadly on host-pathogen interactions, the regulation of the mammalian immune response, and how inter-connected biochemical regulatory mechanisms control antimicrobial pathways. We study aspects of both innate and adaptive immunity, with an interest in understanding how the immune system balances the conflicting needs of eliminating dangerous microbes without simultaneously harming the host. Our research centers around two fascinating immunoregulatory enzymes known as Sts-1 and Sts-2, with studies anchored around two main goals: 1) elucidate biochemical, cellular, and in vivo mechanisms by which the Sts proteins regulate antimicrobial immunity; and 2) develop small molecule Sts inhibitors to advance research and drug development efforts.