The interaction between plants and plant-parasitic nematodes is complex and not well understood. Virtually nothing is known about the molecular biology and biochemistry of this interaction. Numerous studies have shown that a variety of plant genes are up- or down-regulated during nematode infestation. It is thought that secretions of proteins and possibly other small molecules produced by the nematode modulate this plant gene regulation. One class of genes that has been identified as being highly up-regulated is that of membrane channels and transport proteins that aid in the movement of solutes and assimilates into and out of the nematode feeding site. My lab has begun to focus on characterizing the level of expression, location, function and role in nematode feeding and nutrition of transport proteins found in nematode feeding sites. This research will also complement ongoing research regarding the delivery of potential nematicidal RNAs, proteins, and/or phytochemicals.