Abstract
The root nodules ofMelilotus alba, a leguminous fodder herb, contain a high amount of indoleacetic acid (IAA). The tryptophan pool present in the nodule might serve as a source for the IAA production. Metabolism of IAA in the nodules was evidenced by the presence of IAA-metabolizing enzymes, IAA oxidase and peroxidase. A high amount of IAA was produced by the symbiont isolated from the nodules in culture, when supplemented with tryptophan. For IAA production, the bacteria preferred thel-isomer over thedl- ord-isomer of tryptophan. The possible role of nodular IAA production on the legume-Rhizobium symbiosis is discussed.
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Datta, C., Basu, P.S. Content of indoleacetic acid and its metabolism in root nodules ofMelilotus alba . Folia Microbiol 43, 427–430 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02818586
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02818586