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Measurement of nitrogenase activity in legume root nodules: In defense of the acetylene reduction assay

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Abstract

The closed acetylene reduction assay has been used as a measure of nitrogenase activity and an indicator of N2 fixation in Rhizobium/legume symbioses for 25 years. However, starting 10 years ago this assay has come under harsh criticism as being inaccurate. Currently, confusion exists regarding the conditions under which the acetylene reduction assay can be used accurately, or whether it can be used at all as a measure of nitrogenase activity. This article reviews the circumstance that has lead to this confusion. The author argues that under the proper assay conditions and with the appropriate checks, the closed acetylene reduction assay is still a valuable tool in assessing relative differences in nitrogenase activity in Rhizobium/legume symbioses.

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  1. Department of Plant Science, University of Manitoba, R3T 2N2, Winnipeg, MB, Canada

    J. Kevin Vessey

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Vessey, J.K. Measurement of nitrogenase activity in legume root nodules: In defense of the acetylene reduction assay. Plant Soil 158, 151–162 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00009490

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00009490

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