Stress-induced legume root nodule senescence. Physiological, biochemical, and structural alterations

Metal nutrition and transport in the process of symbiotic nitrogen fixation

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) facilitated by the interaction between legumes and rhizobia is a well-documented and eco-friendly alternative to chemical nitrogen fertilizers. Host plants obtain fixed nitrogen from rhizobia by providing carbon and mineral nutrients. These mineral nutrients, which are mostly in the form of metal ions, are implicated in various stages of the SNF process. This review describes the functional roles played by metal ions in nodule formation and nitrogen fixation and specifically addresses their transport mechanisms and associated transporters within root nodules. Future research directions and potential strategies for enhancing SNF efficiency are also discussed.

Effects of Elevated Temperature on Pisum sativum Nodule Development: I-Detailed Characteristic of Unusual Apical Senescence

Despite global warming, the influence of heat on symbiotic nodules is scarcely studied. In this study, the effects of heat stress on the functioning of nodules formed by Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae strain 3841 on pea (Pisum sativum) line SGE were analyzed. The influence of elevated temperature was analyzed at histological, ultrastructural, and transcriptional levels. As a result, an unusual apical pattern of nodule senescence was revealed. After five days of exposure, a senescence zone with degraded symbiotic structures was formed in place of the distal nitrogen fixation zone. There was downregulation of various genes, including those associated with the assimilation of fixed nitrogen and leghemoglobin. After nine days, the complete destruction of the nodules was demonstrated. It was shown that nodule recovery was possible after exposure to elevated temperature for 3 days but not after 5 days (which coincides with heat wave duration). At the same time, the exposure of plants to optimal temperature during the night leveled the negative effects. Thus, the study of the effects of elevated temperature on symbiotic nodules using a well-studied pea genotype and Rhizobium strain led to the discovery of a novel positional response of the nodule to heat stress.

Effect of Triazole Fungicides Titul Duo and Vintage on the Development of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Symbiotic Nodules

Triazole fungicides are widely used in agricultural production for plant protection, including pea (Pisum sativum L.). The use of fungicides can negatively affect the legume-Rhizobium symbiosis. In this study, the effects of triazole fungicides Vintage and Titul Duo on nodule formation and, in particular, on nodule morphology, were studied. Both fungicides at the highest concentration decreased the nodule number and dry weight of the roots 20 days after inoculation. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the following ultrastructural changes in nodules: modifications in the cell walls (their clearing and thinning), thickening of the infection thread walls with the formation of outgrowths, accumulation of poly-β-hydroxybutyrates in bacteroids, expansion of the peribacteroid space, and fusion of symbiosomes. Fungicides Vintage and Titul Duo negatively affect the composition of cell walls, leading to a decrease in the activity of synthesis of cellulose microfibrils and an increase in the number of matrix polysaccharides of cell walls. The results obtained coincide well with the data of transcriptomic analysis, which revealed an increase in the expression levels of genes that control cell wall modification and defense reactions. The data obtained indicate the need for further research on the effects of pesticides on the legume-Rhizobium symbiosis in order to optimize their use.

Stoichiometric homeostasis of N:P ratio drives species-specific symbiotic N fixation inhibition under N addition

Introduction

Symbiotic N fixation inhibition induced by N supply to legumes is potentially regulated by the relative N and P availability in soil. However, the specific responses of different legume species to changes in N:P availability remain unclear, and must be better understood to optimize symbiotic N fixation inputs under N enrichment. This study investigated mechanisms by which soil N and P supply influence the symbiotic N fixation of eight legume species, to quantify the inter-specific differences, and to demonstrate how these differences can be determined by the stoichiometric homeostasis in N:P ratios (HN:P).

Methods

Eight herbaceous legume species were grown separately in outdoor pots and treated with either no fertilizer (control), N fertilizer (14 g N m-2), P fertilizer (3.5 g P m-2) or both N and P fertilizer. Plant nutrients, stoichiometric characteristics, root biomass, non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), rhizosphere chemistry, P mobilization, root nodulation and symbiotic N fixation were measured.

Results

N addition enhanced rhizosphere P mobilization but drove a loss of root biomass and root NSC via exudation of P mobilization compound (organic acid), especially so in treatments without P addition. N addition also induced a 2-14% or 14-36% decline in symbiotic N fixation per plant biomass by legumes in treatments with or without P addition, as a result of decreasing root biomass and root NSC. The changes in symbiotic N fixation were positively correlated with stoichiometric homeostasis of N:P ratios in intact plants without root nodules, regardless of P additions.

Discussion

This study indicates that N addition can induce relative P limitations for growth, which can stimulate rhizosphere P mobilization at the expense of root biomass and carbohydrate concentrations, reducing symbiotic N fixation in legumes. Legume species that had less changes in plant N:P ratio, such as Lespedeza daurica and Medicago varia maintained symbiotic N fixation to a greater extent under N addition.

Systemic regulation of nodule structure and assimilated carbon distribution by nitrate in soybean

BACKGROUND

The nitrate regulates soybean nodulation and nitrogen fixation systemically, mainly in inhibiting nodule growth and reducing nodule nitrogenase activity, but the reason for its inhibition is still inconclusive.

METHODS

The systemic effect of nitrate on nodule structure, function, and carbon distribution in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) was studied in a dual-root growth system, with both sides inoculated with rhizobia and only one side subjected to nitrate treatment for four days. The non-nodulating side was genetically devoid of the ability to form nodules. Nutrient solutions with nitrogen concentrations of 0, 100, and 200 mg L^-1 were applied as KNO₃ to the non-nodulating side, while the nodulating side received a nitrogen-free nutrient solution. Carbon partitioning in roots and nodules was monitored using ¹³C-labelled CO₂. Other nodule responses were measured via the estimation of the nitrogenase activity and the microscopic observation of nodule ultrastructure.

RESULTS

Elevated concentrations of nitrate applied on the non-nodulating side caused a decrease in the number of bacteroids, fusion of symbiosomes, enlargement of the peribacteroid spaces, and onset of degradation of poly-β-hydroxybutyrate granules, which is a form of carbon storage in bacteroids. These microscopic observations were associated with a strong decrease in the nitrogenase activity of nodules. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that the assimilated carbon is more likely to be allocated to the non-nodulating roots, as follows from the competition for carbon between the symbiotic and non-symbiotic sides of the dual-root system.

CONCLUSION

We propose that there is no carbon competition between roots and nodules when they are indirectly supplied with nitrate, and that the reduction of carbon fluxes to nodules and roots on the nodulating side is the mechanism by which the plant systemically suppresses nodulation under nitrogen-replete conditions.

A dual legume-rhizobium transcriptome of symbiotic nodule senescence reveals coordinated plant and bacterial responses

Senescence determines plant organ lifespan depending on aging and environmental cues. During the endosymbiotic interaction with rhizobia, legume plants develop a specific organ, the root nodule, which houses nitrogen (N)-fixing bacteria. Unlike earlier processes of the legume-rhizobium interaction (nodule formation, N fixation), mechanisms controlling nodule senescence remain poorly understood. To identify nodule senescence-associated genes, we performed a dual plant-bacteria RNA sequencing approach on Medicago truncatula-Sinorhizobium meliloti nodules having initiated senescence either naturally (aging) or following an environmental trigger (nitrate treatment or salt stress). The resulting data allowed the identification of hundreds of plant and bacterial genes differentially regulated during nodule senescence, thus providing an unprecedented comprehensive resource of new candidate genes associated with this process. Remarkably, several plant and bacterial genes related to the cell cycle and stress responses were regulated in senescent nodules, including the rhizobial RpoE2-dependent general stress response. Analysis of selected core nodule senescence plant genes allowed showing that MtNAC969 and MtS40, both homologous to leaf senescence-associated genes, negatively regulate the transition between N fixation and senescence. In contrast, overexpression of a gene involved in the biosynthesis of cytokinins, well-known negative regulators of leaf senescence, may promote the transition from N fixation to senescence in nodules.

Characteristics and Research Progress of Legume Nodule Senescence

Delaying the nodule senescence of legume crops can prolong the time of nitrogen fixation and attenuate the lack of fertilizer in the later stage of legume crop cultivation, resulting in improved crop yield and reduced usage of nitrogen fertilizer. However, effective measures to delay the nodule senescence of legume crops in agriculture are relatively lacking. In the present review, we summarized the structural and physiological characteristics of nodule senescence, as well as the corresponding detection methods, providing technical support for the identification of nodule senescence phenotype. We then outlined the key genes currently known to be involved in the regulation of nodule senescence, offering the molecular genetic information for breeding varieties with delayed nodule senescence. In addition, we reviewed various abiotic factors affecting nodule senescence, providing a theoretical basis for the interaction between molecular genetics and abiotic factors in the regulation of nodule senescence. Finally, we briefly prospected research foci of nodule senescence in the future.

The Fungicide Tetramethylthiuram Disulfide Negatively Affects Plant Cell Walls, Infection Thread Walls, and Symbiosomes in Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Symbiotic Nodules

In Russia, tetramethylthiuram disulfide (TMTD) is a fungicide widely used in the cultivation of legumes, including the pea (Pisum sativum). Application of TMTD can negatively affect nodulation; nevertheless, its effect on the histological and ultrastructural organization of nodules has not previously been investigated. In this study, the effect of TMTD at three concentrations (0.4, 4, and 8 g/kg) on nodule development in three pea genotypes (laboratory lines Sprint-2 and SGE, and cultivar 'Finale') was examined. In SGE, TMTD at 0.4 g/kg reduced the nodule number and shoot and root fresh weights. Treatment with TMTD at 8 g/kg changed the nodule color from pink to green, indicative of nodule senescence. Light and transmission electron microscopy analyses revealed negative effects of TMTD on nodule structure in each genotype. 'Finale' was the most sensitive cultivar to TMTD and Sprint-2 was the most tolerant. The negative effects of TMTD on nodules included the appearance of a senescence zone, starch accumulation, swelling of cell walls accompanied by a loss of electron density, thickening of the infection thread walls, symbiosome fusion, and bacteroid degradation. These results demonstrate how TMTD adversely affects nodules in the pea and will be useful for developing strategies to optimize fungicide use on legume crops.

Role of cytosolic, tyrosine-insensitive prephenate dehydrogenase in Medicago truncatula

l-Tyrosine (Tyr) is an aromatic amino acid synthesized de novo in plants and microbes downstream of the shikimate pathway. In plants, Tyr and a Tyr pathway intermediate, 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate (HPP), are precursors to numerous specialized metabolites, which are crucial for plant and human health. Tyr is synthesized in the plastids by a TyrA family enzyme, arogenate dehydrogenase (ADH/TyrAa), which is feedback inhibited by Tyr. Additionally, many legumes possess prephenate dehydrogenases (PDH/TyrAp), which are insensitive to Tyr and localized to the cytosol. Yet the role of PDH enzymes in legumes is currently unknown. This study isolated and characterized Tnt1-transposon mutants of MtPDH1 (pdh1) in Medicago truncatula to investigate PDH function. The pdh1 mutants lacked PDH transcript and PDH activity, and displayed little aberrant morphological phenotypes under standard growth conditions, providing genetic evidence that MtPDH1 is responsible for the PDH activity detected in M. truncatula. Though plant PDH enzymes and activity have been specifically found in legumes, nodule number and nitrogenase activity of pdh1 mutants were not significantly reduced compared with wild-type (Wt) during symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Although Tyr levels were not significantly different between Wt and mutants under standard conditions, when carbon flux was increased by shikimate precursor feeding, mutants accumulated significantly less Tyr than Wt. These data suggest that MtPDH1 is involved in Tyr biosynthesis when the shikimate pathway is stimulated and possibly linked to unidentified legume-specific specialized metabolism.

Ammonium acts systemically while nitrate exerts an additional local effect on Medicago truncatula nodules

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) has a high energetic cost for legume plants; legumes thus reduce SNF when soil N is available. The present study aimed to increase our understanding regarding the impacts of the two principal forms of available N in soils (ammonium and nitrate) on SNF. We continuously measured the SNF of Medicago truncatula under controlled conditions. This permitted nodule sampling for comparative transcriptome profiling at points connected to the nodules' reaction following ammonium or nitrate applications. The N component of both ions systemically induced a rhythmic pattern of SNF, while the activity in control plants remained constant. This rhythmic activity reduced the per-day SNF. The nitrate ion had additional local effects; the more pronounced were a strong downregulation of leghaemoglobin, nodule cysteine-rich (NCR) peptides and nodule-enhanced nicotianamine synthase (neNAS). The neNAS has proven to be of importance for nodule functioning. Although other physiological impacts of nitrate on nodules were observed (e.g. nitrosylation of leghaemoglobin), the main effect was a rapid ion-specific and organ-specific change in gene expression levels. Contrastingly, during the first hours after ammonium applications, the transcriptome remained virtually unaffected. Therefore, nitrate-induced genes could be key for increasing the nitrate tolerance of SNF.

Nitric oxide signaling, metabolism and toxicity in nitrogen-fixing symbiosis

Interactions between legumes and rhizobia lead to the establishment of a symbiotic relationship characterized by the formation of a new organ, the nodule, which facilitates the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen (N2) by nitrogenase through the creation of a hypoxic environment. Significant amounts of nitric oxide (NO) accumulate at different stages of nodule development, suggesting that NO performs specific signaling and/or metabolic functions during symbiosis. NO, which regulates nodule gene expression, accumulates to high levels in hypoxic nodules. NO accumulation is considered to assist energy metabolism within the hypoxic environment of the nodule via a phytoglobin-NO-mediated respiration process. NO is a potent inhibitor of the activity of nitrogenase and other plant and bacterial enzymes, acting as a developmental signal in the induction of nodule senescence. Hence, key questions concern the relative importance of the signaling and metabolic functions of NO versus its toxic action and how NO levels are regulated to be compatible with nitrogen fixation functions. This review analyses these paradoxical roles of NO at various stages of symbiosis, and highlights the role of plant phytoglobins and bacterial hemoproteins in the control of NO accumulation.

The Noncanonical Heat Shock Protein PvNod22 Is Essential for Infection Thread Progression During Rhizobial Endosymbiosis in Common Bean

In the establishment of plant-rhizobial symbiosis, the plant hosts express nodulin proteins during root nodule organogenesis. A limited number of nodulins have been characterized, and these perform essential functions in root nodule development and metabolism. Most nodulins are expressed in the nodule and at lower levels in other plant tissues. Previously, we isolated Nodulin 22 (PvNod22) from a common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cDNA library derived from Rhizobium-infected roots. PvNod22 is a noncanonical, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized, small heat shock protein that confers protection against oxidative stress when overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Virus-induced gene silencing of PvNod22 resulted in necrotic lesions in the aerial organs of P. vulgaris plants cultivated under optimal conditions, activation of the ER-unfolded protein response (UPR), and, finally, plant death. Here, we examined the expression of PvNod22 in common bean plants during the establishment of rhizobial endosymbiosis and its relationship with two cellular processes associated with plant immunity, the UPR and autophagy. In the RNA interference lines, numerous infection threads stopped their progression before reaching the cortex cell layer of the root, and nodules contained fewer nitrogen-fixing bacteroids. Collectively, our results suggest that PvNod22 has a nonredundant function during legume-rhizobia symbiosis associated with infection thread elongation, likely by sustaining protein homeostasis in the ER.

Involvement of Glutaredoxin and Thioredoxin Systems in the Nitrogen-Fixing Symbiosis between Legumes and Rhizobia

Leguminous plants can form a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria, during which plants provide bacteria with carbohydrates and an environment appropriate to their metabolism, in return for fixed atmospheric nitrogen. The symbiotic interaction leads to the formation of a new organ, the root nodule, where a coordinated differentiation of plant cells and bacteria occurs. The establishment and functioning of nitrogen-fixing symbiosis involves a redox control important for both the plant-bacteria crosstalk and the regulation of nodule metabolism. In this review, we discuss the involvement of thioredoxin and glutaredoxin systems in the two symbiotic partners during symbiosis. The crucial role of glutathione in redox balance and S-metabolism is presented. We also highlight the specific role of some thioredoxin and glutaredoxin systems in bacterial differentiation. Transcriptomics data concerning genes encoding components and targets of thioredoxin and glutaredoxin systems in connection with the developmental step of the nodule are also considered in the model system Medicago truncatula⁻Sinorhizobium meliloti.

Early nodule senescence is activated in symbiotic mutants of pea (Pisum sativum L.) forming ineffective nodules blocked at different nodule developmental stages

Plant symbiotic mutants are useful tool to uncover the molecular-genetic mechanisms of nodule senescence. The pea (Pisum sativum L.) mutants SGEFix--1 (sym40), SGEFix--3 (sym26), and SGEFix--7 (sym27) display an early nodule senescence phenotype, whereas the mutant SGEFix--2 (sym33) does not show premature degradation of symbiotic structures, but its nodules show an enhanced immune response. The nodules of these mutants were compared with each other and with those of the wild-type SGE line using seven marker genes that are known to be activated during nodule senescence. In wild-type SGE nodules, transcript levels of all of the senescence-associated genes were highest at 6 weeks after inoculation (WAI). The senescence-associated genes showed higher transcript abundance in mutant nodules than in wild-type nodules at 2 WAI and attained maximum levels in the mutant nodules at 4 WAI. Immunolocalization analyses showed that the ethylene precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate accumulated earlier in the mutant nodules than in wild-type nodules. Together, these results showed that nodule senescence was activated in ineffective nodules blocked at different developmental stages in pea lines that harbor mutations in four symbiotic genes.

Nitrate-mediated control of root nodule symbiosis

Nitrogen is an indispensable inorganic nutrient that is required by plants throughout their life. Root nodule symbiosis (RNS) is an important strategy mainly adopted by legumes to enhance nitrogen acquisition, where several key processes required for the establishment of the symbiosis, are pleiotropically controlled by nitrate availability in soil. Although the autoregulation of nodulation (AON), a systemic long-range signaling, has been suggested to be implicated in nitrate-induced control of RNS, AON alone is insufficient to fully explain the pleiotropic regulation that is induced by nitrate. A recent elucidation of the function of a NIN-LIKE PROTEIN transcription factor has provided greater insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying nitrate-induced control of RNS in varying nitrate environments.

Metal resistant rhizobia and ultrastructure of Anthyllis vulneraria nodules from zinc and lead contaminated tailing in Poland

This present paper studies the response of Anthyllis vulneraria-Rhizobium symbiosis to heavy metal stress. The symbiotic rhizobium bacteria isolated from root nodules of A. vulneraria from zinc and lead wastes were examined in this project. Light microscopy (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to analyze the nodule anatomy and ultrastructure and conduct a comparison with nonmetal-treated nodules. 16S ribosomal DNA sequence analysis of bacteria isolated from metal-treated nodules revealed the presence of Rhizobium metallidurans and Bradyrhizobium sp. In regard to heavy metal resistance/tolerance, a similar tolerance to Pb was shown by both strains, and a high tolerance to Zn and a lower tolerance to Cd and Cu by R. metallidurans, whereas a high tolerance to Cd and Cu and a lower tolerance to Zn by Bradyrhizobium were found. The nodules of Anthyllis from metal-polluted tailing sites were identified as the typical determinate type of nodules. Observed under TEM microscopy changes in nodules ultrastructure like: (1) wall thickening; (2) infection thread reduction; (3) vacuole shrinkage; (4) synthesis of phenolics in vacuoles; (5) various differentiation of bacteroids and (6) simultaneous symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi could be considered as a form of the A.vulneraria-Rhizobium symbiosis adaptation to metal stress.

A NIN-LIKE PROTEIN mediates nitrate-induced control of root nodule symbiosis in Lotus japonicus

Legumes and rhizobia establish symbiosis in root nodules. To balance the gains and costs associated with the symbiosis, plants have developed two strategies for adapting to nitrogen availability in the soil: plants can regulate nodule number and/or stop the development or function of nodules. Although the former is accounted for by autoregulation of nodulation, a form of systemic long-range signaling, the latter strategy remains largely enigmatic. Here, we show that the Lotus japonicus NITRATE UNRESPONSIVE SYMBIOSIS 1 (NRSYM1) gene encoding a NIN-LIKE PROTEIN transcription factor acts as a key regulator in the nitrate-induced pleiotropic control of root nodule symbiosis. NRSYM1 accumulates in the nucleus in response to nitrate and directly regulates the production of CLE-RS2, a root-derived mobile peptide that acts as a negative regulator of nodule number. Our data provide the genetic basis for how plants respond to the nitrogen environment and control symbiosis to achieve proper plant growth.

Effects, tolerance mechanisms and management of salt stress in grain legumes

Salt stress is an ever-present threat to crop yields, especially in countries with irrigated agriculture. Efforts to improve salt tolerance in crop plants are vital for sustainable crop production on marginal lands to ensure future food supplies. Grain legumes are a fascinating group of plants due to their high grain protein contents and ability to fix biological nitrogen. However, the accumulation of excessive salts in soil and the use of saline groundwater are threatening legume production worldwide. Salt stress disturbs photosynthesis and hormonal regulation and causes nutritional imbalance, specific ion toxicity and osmotic effects in legumes to reduce grain yield and quality. Understanding the responses of grain legumes to salt stress and the associated tolerance mechanisms, as well as assessing management options, may help in the development of strategies to improve the performance of grain legumes under salt stress. In this manuscript, we discuss the effects, tolerance mechanisms and management of salt stress in grain legumes. The principal inferences of the review are: (i) salt stress reduces seed germination (by up to more than 50%) either by inhibiting water uptake and/or the toxic effect of ions in the embryo, (ii) salt stress reduces growth (by more than 70%), mineral uptake, and yield (by 12-100%) due to ion toxicity and reduced photosynthesis, (iii) apoplastic acidification is a good indicator of salt stress tolerance, (iv) tolerance to salt stress in grain legumes may develop through excretion and/or compartmentalization of toxic ions, increased antioxidant capacity, accumulation of compatible osmolytes, and/or hormonal regulation, (v) seed priming and nutrient management may improve salt tolerance in grain legumes, (vi) plant growth promoting rhizobacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi may help to improve salt tolerance due to better plant nutrient availability, and (vii) the integration of screening, innovative breeding, and the development of transgenics and crop management strategies may enhance salt tolerance and yield in grain legumes on salt-affected soils.

Comparative conventional and phenomics approaches to assess symbiotic effectiveness of Bradyrhizobia strains in soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) to drought

Symbiotic effectiveness of rhizobitoxine (Rtx)-producing strains of Bradyrhizobium spp. in soybean (cultivar NRC-37/Ahilya-4) under limited soil moisture conditions was evaluated using phenomics tools such as infrared(IR) thermal and visible imaging. Red, green and blue (RGB) colour pixels were standardized to analyse a total of 1017 IR thermal and 692 visible images. Plants inoculated with the Rtx-producing strains B. elkanii USDA-61 and USDA-94 and successive inoculation by B. diazoefficiens USDA-110 resulted in cooler canopy temperatures and increased canopy greenness. The results of the image analysis of plants inoculated with Rtx-producing strains were correlated with effective nodulation, improved photosynthesis, plant nitrogen status and yield parameters. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed the reliability of the phenomics approach over conventional destructive approaches in assessing the symbiotic effectiveness of Bradyrhizobium strains in soybean plants under watered (87.41-89.96%) and water-stressed (90.54-94.21%) conditions. Multivariate cluster analysis (MCA) revealed two distinct clusters denoting effective (Rtx) and ineffective (non-Rtx) Bradyrhizobium inoculation treatments in soybean. Furthermore, correlation analysis showed that this phenotyping approach is a dependable alternative for screening drought tolerant genotypes or drought resilience symbiosis. This is the first report on the application of non-invasive phenomics techniques, particularly RGB-based image analysis, in assessing plant-microbe symbiotic interactions to impart abiotic stress tolerance.

Diversity of nodular bacteria ofScorpiurus muricatusin western Algeria and their impact on plant growth

A total of 51 bacterial strains were isolated from root nodules of Scorpiurus muricatus sampled from 6 regions of western Algeria. Strain diversity was assessed by rep-PCR amplification fingerprinting, which grouped the isolates into 28 different clusters. Partial nucleotide sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and BLAST analysis revealed that root nodules of S. muricatus were colonized by different species close to Rhizobium vignae, Rhizobium radiobacter, Rhizobium leguminosarum, Phyllobacterium ifriqiyense, Phyllobacterium endophyticum, Starkeya sp., and Pseudomonas sp. However, none of these strains was able to form nodules on its host plant; even nodC was present in a single strain (SMT8a). The inoculation test showed a great improvement in the growth of inoculated plants compared with noninoculated control plants. A significant amount of indole acetic acid was produced by some strains, but only 2 strains could solubilize phosphate. In this report we described for the first time the diversity of bacteria isolated from root nodules of S. muricatus growing in different regions in western Algeria and demonstrated their potential use in promoting plant growth.

Iron-induced nitric oxide leads to an increase in the expression of ferritin during the senescence of Lotus japonicus nodules

Iron is an essential nutrient for legume-rhizobium symbiosis and accumulates abundantly in the nodules. However, the concentration of free iron in the cells is strictly controlled to avoid toxicity. It is known that ferritin accumulates in the cells as an iron storage protein. During nodule senescence, the expression of the ferritin gene, Ljfer1, was induced in Lotus japonicus. We investigated a signal transduction pathway leading to the increase of Ljfer1 in the nodule. The Ljfer1 promoter of L. japonicus contains a conserved Iron-Dependent Regulatory Sequence (IDRS). The expression of Ljfer1 was induced by the application of iron or sodium nitroprusside, which is a nitric oxide (NO) donor. The application of iron to the nodule increased the level of NO. These data strongly suggest that iron-induced NO leads to increased expression of Ljfer1 during the senescence of L. japonicus nodules.

Deletion of the SACPD-C Locus Alters the Symbiotic Relationship Between Bradyrhizobium japonicum USDA110 and Soybean, Resulting in Elicitation of Plant Defense Response and Nodulation Defects

Legumes form symbiotic associations with soil-dwelling bacteria collectively called rhizobia. This association results in the formation of nodules, unique plant-derived organs, within which the rhizobia are housed. Rhizobia-encoded nitrogenase facilitates the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which is utilized by the plants for its growth and development. Fatty acids have been shown to play an important role in root nodule symbiosis. In this study, we have investigated the role of stearoyl-acyl carrier protein desaturase isoform C (SACPD-C), a soybean enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of stearic acid into oleic acid, which is expressed in developing seeds and in nitrogen-fixing nodules. In-depth cytological investigation of nodule development in sacpd-c mutant lines M25 and MM106 revealed gross anatomical alteration in the sacpd-c mutants. Transmission electron microscopy observations revealed ultrastructural alterations in the sacpd-c mutants that are typically associated with plant defense response to pathogens. In nodules of two sacpd-c mutants, the combined jasmonic acid (JA) species (JA and the isoleucine conjugate of JA) were found to be reduced and 12-oxophytodienoic acid (OPDA) levels were significantly higher relative to wild-type lines. Salicylic acid levels were not significantly different between genotypes, which is divergent from previous studies of sacpd mutant studies on vegetative tissues. Soybean nodule phytohormone profiles were very divergent from those of roots, and root profiles were found to be almost identical between mutant and wild-type genotypes. The activities of antioxidant enzymes, ascorbate peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase were also found to be higher in nodules of sacpd-c mutants. PR-1 gene expression was extremely elevated in M25 and MM106, while the expression of nitrogenase was significantly reduced in these sacpd-c mutants, compared with the parent 'Bay'. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time of flight mass spectrometry analyses confirmed sacpd-c mutants also accumulated higher amounts of pathogenesis-related proteins in the nodules. Our study establishes a major role for SACPD-C activity as essential for proper maintenance of soybean nodule morphology and physiology and indicates that OPDA signaling is likely to be involved in attenuation of nodule biotic defense responses.

PII Overexpression in Lotus japonicus Affects Nodule Activity in Permissive Low-Nitrogen Conditions and Increases Nodule Numbers in High Nitrogen Treated Plants

We report here the first characterization of a GLNB1 gene coding for the PII protein in leguminous plants. The main purpose of this work was the investigation of the possible roles played by this multifunctional protein in nodulation pathways. The Lotus japonicus LjGLB1 gene shows a significant transcriptional regulation during the light-dark cycle and different nitrogen availability, conditions that strongly affect nodule formation, development, and functioning. We also report analysis of the spatial profile of expression of LjGLB1 in root and nodule tissues and of the protein's subcellular localization. Transgenic L. japonicus lines overexpressing the PII protein were obtained and tested for the analysis of the symbiotic responses in different conditions. The uncoupling of PII from its native regulation affects nitrogenase activity and nodule polyamine content. Furthermore, our results suggest the involvement of PII in the signaling of the nitrogen nutritional status affecting the legumes' predisposition for nodule formation.

Study of phenanthrene utilizing bacterial consortia associated with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) root nodules

Many legumes have been selected as model plants to degrade organic contaminants with their special associated rhizosphere microbes in soil. However, the function of root nodules during microbe-assisted phytoremediation is not clear. A pot study was conducted to examine phenanthrene (PHE) utilizing bacteria associated with root nodules and the effects of cowpea root nodules on phytoremediation in two different types of soils (freshly contaminated soil and aged contaminated soil). Cowpea nodules in freshly-contaminated soil showed less damage in comparison to the aged-contaminated soil, both morphologically and ultra-structurally by scanning electron microscopy. The study of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) attenuation conducted by high performance liquid chromatography revealed that more PAH was eliminated from liquid culture around nodulated roots than nodule-free roots. PAH sublimation and denaturation gradient gel electrophoresis were applied to analyze the capability and diversity of PAH degrading bacteria from the following four parts of rhizo-microzone: bulk soil, root surface, nodule surface and nodule inside. The results indicated that the surface and inside of cowpea root nodules were colonized with bacterial consortia that utilized PHE. Our results demonstrated that root nodules not only fixed nitrogen, but also enriched PAH-utilizing microorganisms both inside and outside of the nodules. Legume nodules may have biotechnological values for PAH degradation.

Secretion systems and signal exchange between nitrogen-fixing rhizobia and legumes

The formation of symbiotic nitrogen-fixing nodules on the roots and/or stem of leguminous plants involves a complex signal exchange between both partners. Since many microorganisms are present in the soil, legumes and rhizobia must recognize and initiate communication with each other to establish symbioses. This results in the formation of nodules. Rhizobia within nodules exchange fixed nitrogen for carbon from the legume. Symbiotic relationships can become non-beneficial if one partner ceases to provide support to the other. As a result, complex signal exchange mechanisms have evolved to ensure continued, beneficial symbioses. Proper recognition and signal exchange is also the basis for host specificity. Nodule formation always provides a fitness benefit to rhizobia, but does not always provide a fitness benefit to legumes. Therefore, legumes have evolved a mechanism to regulate the number of nodules that are formed, this is called autoregulation of nodulation. Sequencing of many different rhizobia have revealed the presence of several secretion systems - and the Type III, Type IV, and Type VI secretion systems are known to be used by pathogens to transport effector proteins. These secretion systems are also known to have an effect on host specificity and are a determinant of overall nodule number on legumes. This review focuses on signal exchange between rhizobia and legumes, particularly focusing on the role of secretion systems involved in nodule formation and host specificity.

Identification of Cold-Responsive miRNAs and Their Target Genes in Nitrogen-Fixing Nodules of Soybean

As a warm climate species, soybean is highly sensitive to chilling temperatures. Exposure to chilling temperatures causes a significant reduction in the nitrogen fixation rate in soybean plants and subsequent yield loss. However, the molecular basis for the sensitivity of soybean to chilling is poorly understood. In this study, we identified cold-responsive miRNAs in nitrogen-fixing nodules of soybean. Upon chilling, the expression of gma-miR397a, gma-miR166u and gma-miR171p was greatly upregulated, whereas the expression of gma-miR169c, gma-miR159b, gma-miR319a/b and gma-miR5559 was significantly decreased. The target genes of these miRNAs were predicted and validated using 5' complementary DNA ends (5'-RACE) experiments, and qPCR analysis identified putative genes targeted by the cold-responsive miRNAs in response to chilling temperatures. Taken together, our results reveal that miRNAs may be involved in the protective mechanism against chilling injury in mature nodules of soybean.

MtZR1, a PRAF protein, is involved in the development of roots and symbiotic root nodules in Medicago truncatula

PRAF proteins are present in all plants, but their functions remain unclear. We investigated the role of one member of the PRAF family, MtZR1, on the development of roots and nitrogen-fixing nodules in Medicago truncatula. We found that MtZR1 was expressed in all M. truncatula organs. Spatiotemporal analysis showed that MtZR1 expression in M. truncatula roots was mostly limited to the root meristem and the vascular bundles of mature nodules. MtZR1 expression in root nodules was down-regulated in response to various abiotic stresses known to affect nitrogen fixation efficiency. The down-regulation of MtZR1 expression by RNA interference in transgenic roots decreased root growth and impaired nodule development and function. MtZR1 overexpression resulted in longer roots and significant changes to nodule development. Our data thus indicate that MtZR1 is involved in the development of roots and nodules. To our knowledge, this work provides the first in vivo experimental evidence of a biological role for a typical PRAF protein in plants.

Localization of hydrogen peroxide accumulation and diamine oxidase activity in pea root nodules under aluminum stress

Aluminum (Al) is one of the environmental stressors that induces formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and H2O2-generated apoplast diamine oxidase (DAO) activity were detected cytochemically via transmission electron microscopy (TEM), in pea (Pisum sativum L.) root nodules exposed to high (50 μM AlCl3, for 2 and 24h) Al stress. The nodules were shown to respond to Al stress by disturbances in infection thread (IT) growth, bacteria endocytosis, premature degeneration of bacteroidal tissue and generation of H2O2 in nodule apoplast. Large amounts of peroxide were found at the same sites as high DAO activity under Al stress, suggesting that DAO is a major source of Al-induced peroxide accumulation in the nodules. Peroxide distribution and DAO activity in the nodules of both control plants and Al-treated ones were typically found in the plant cell walls, intercellular spaces and infection threads. However, 2 h Al treatment increased DAO activity and peroxide accumulation in the nodule apoplast and bacteria within threads. A prolonged Al treatment (24 h) increased the H2O2 content and DAO activity in the nodule apoplast, especially in the thread walls, matrix and bacteria within infection threads. In addition to ITs, prematurely degenerated bacteroids, which occurred in response to Al, were associated with intense staining for H2O2 and DAO activity. These results suggest the involvement of DAO in the production of a large amount of H2O2 in the nodule apoplast under Al stress. The role of reactive oxygen species in pea-Rhizobium symbiosis under Al stress is discussed.

An RNA sequencing transcriptome analysis reveals novel insights into molecular aspects of the nitrate impact on the nodule activity of Medicago truncatula

The mechanism through which nitrate reduces the activity of legume nodules is controversial. The objective of the study was to follow Medicago truncatula nodule activity after nitrate provision continuously and to identify molecular mechanisms, which down-regulate the activity of the nodules. Nodule H2 evolution started to decline after about 4 h of nitrate application. At that point in time, a strong shift in nodule gene expression (RNA sequencing) had occurred (1,120 differentially expressed genes). The most pronounced effect was the down-regulation of 127 genes for nodule-specific cysteine-rich peptides. Various other nodulins were also strongly down-regulated, in particular all the genes for leghemoglobins. In addition, shifts in the expression of genes involved in cellular iron allocation and mitochondrial ATP synthesis were observed. Furthermore, the expression of numerous genes for the formation of proteins and glycoproteins with no obvious function in nodules (e.g. germins, patatin, and thaumatin) was strongly increased. This occurred in conjunction with an up-regulation of genes for proteinase inhibitors, in particular those containing the Kunitz domain. The additionally formed proteins might possibly be involved in reducing nodule oxygen permeability. Between 4 and 28 h of nitrate exposure, a further reduction in nodule activity occurred, and the number of differentially expressed genes almost tripled. In particular, there was a differential expression of genes connected with emerging senescence. It is concluded that nitrate exerts rapid and manifold effects on nitrogenase activity. A certain degree of nitrate tolerance might be achieved when the down-regulatory effect on late nodulins can be alleviated.

Glutathione and plant response to the biotic environment

Glutathione (GSH) is a major antioxidant molecule in plants. It is involved in regulating plant development and responses to the abiotic and biotic environment. In recent years, numerous reports have clarified the molecular processes involving GSH in plant-microbe interactions. In this review, we summarize recent studies, highlighting the roles of GSH in interactions between plants and microbes, whether pathogenic or beneficial to plants.

Peribacteroid space acidification: a marker of mature bacteroid functioning in Medicago truncatula nodules

Legumes form a symbiotic interaction with Rhizobiaceae bacteria, which differentiate into nitrogen-fixing bacteroids within nodules. Here, we investigated in vivo the pH of the peribacteroid space (PBS) surrounding the bacteroid and pH variation throughout symbiosis. In vivo confocal microscopy investigations, using acidotropic probes, demonstrated the acidic state of the PBS. In planta analysis of nodule senescence induced by distinct biological processes drastically increased PBS pH in the N2 -fixing zone (zone III). Therefore, the PBS acidification observed in mature bacteroids can be considered as a marker of bacteroid N2 fixation. Using a pH-sensitive ratiometric probe, PBS pH was measured in vivo during the whole symbiotic process. We showed a progressive acidification of the PBS from the bacteroid release up to the onset of N2 fixation. Genetic and pharmacological approaches were conducted and led to disruption of the PBS acidification. Altogether, our findings shed light on the role of PBS pH of mature bacteroids in nodule functioning, providing new tools to monitor in vivo bacteroid physiology.

Thiol-based redox signaling in the nitrogen-fixing symbiosis

In nitrogen poor soils legumes establish a symbiotic interaction with rhizobia that results in the formation of root nodules. These are unique plant organs where bacteria differentiate into bacteroids, which express the nitrogenase enzyme complex that reduces atmospheric N 2 to ammonia. Nodule metabolism requires a tight control of the concentrations of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) so that they can perform useful signaling roles while avoiding nitro-oxidative damage. In nodules a thiol-dependent regulatory network that senses, transmits and responds to redox changes is starting to be elucidated. A combination of enzymatic, immunological, pharmacological and molecular analyses has allowed us to conclude that glutathione and its legume-specific homolog, homoglutathione, are abundant in meristematic and infected cells, that their spatio-temporally distribution is correlated with the corresponding (homo)glutathione synthetase activities, and that they are crucial for nodule development and function. Glutathione is at high concentrations in the bacteroids and at moderate amounts in the mitochondria, cytosol and nuclei. Less information is available on other components of the network. The expression of multiple isoforms of glutathione peroxidases, peroxiredoxins, thioredoxins, glutaredoxins and NADPH-thioredoxin reductases has been detected in nodule cells using antibodies and proteomics. Peroxiredoxins and thioredoxins are essential to regulate and in some cases to detoxify RONS in nodules. Further research is necessary to clarify the regulation of the expression and activity of thiol redox-active proteins in response to abiotic, biotic and developmental cues, their interactions with downstream targets by disulfide-exchange reactions, and their participation in signaling cascades. The availability of mutants and transgenic lines will be crucial to facilitate systematic investigations into the function of the various proteins in the legume-rhizobial symbiosis.

Medicago truncatula esn1 defines a genetic locus involved in nodule senescence and symbiotic nitrogen fixation

Symbiotic interaction between Medicago truncatula and Sinorhizobium meliloti results in the formation on the host roots of new organs, nodules, in which biological nitrogen fixation takes place. In infected cells, rhizobia enclosed in a plant-derived membrane, the symbiosome membrane, differentiate to nitrogen-fixing bacteroids. The symbiosome membrane serves as an interface for metabolite and signal exchanges between the host cells and endosymbionts. At some point during symbiosis, symbiosomes and symbiotic cells are disintegrated, resulting in nodule senescence. The regulatory mechanisms that underlie nodule senescence are not fully understood. Using a forward genetics approach, we have uncovered the early senescent nodule 1 (esn1) mutant from an M. truncatula fast neutron-induced mutant collection. Nodules on esn1 roots are spherically shaped, ineffective in nitrogen fixation, and senesce early. Atypical among fixation defective mutants isolated thus far, bacteroid differentiation and expression of nifH, Leghemoglobin, and DNF1 genes are not affected in esn1 nodules, supporting the idea that a process downstream of bacteroid differentiation and nitrogenase gene expression is affected in the esn1 mutant. Expression analysis shows that marker genes involved in senescence, macronutrient degradation, and remobilization are greatly upregulated during nodule development in the esn1 mutant, consistent with a role of ESN1 in nodule senescence and symbiotic nitrogen fixation.

Cessation of photosynthesis in Lotus japonicus leaves leads to reprogramming of nodule metabolism

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) involves global changes in gene expression and metabolite accumulation in both rhizobia and the host plant. In order to study the metabolic changes mediated by leaf-root interaction, photosynthesis was limited in leaves by exposure of plants to darkness, and subsequently gene expression was profiled by real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) and metabolite levels by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the nodules of the model legume Lotus japonicus. Photosynthetic carbon deficiency caused by prolonged darkness affected many metabolic processes in L. japonicus nodules. Most of the metabolic genes analysed were down-regulated during the extended dark period. In addition to that, the levels of most metabolites decreased or remained unaltered, although accumulation of amino acids was observed. Reduced glycolysis and carbon fixation resulted in lower organic acid levels, especially of malate, the primary source of carbon for bacteroid metabolism and SNF. The high amino acid concentrations together with a reduction in total protein concentration indicate possible protein degradation in nodules under these conditions. Interestingly, comparisons between amino acid and protein content in various organs indicated systemic changes in response to prolonged darkness between nodulated and non-nodulated plants, rendering the nodule a source organ for both C and N under these conditions.

Mitochondria are an early target of oxidative modifications in senescing legume nodules

Legume nodule senescence is a poorly understood process involving a decrease in N(2) fixation and an increase in proteolytic activity. Some physiological changes during nodule aging have been reported, but scarce information is available at the subcellular level. Biochemical, immunological and proteomic approaches were used to provide insight into the effects of aging on the mitochondria and cytosol of nodule host cells. In the mitochondria, the oxidative modification of lipids and proteins was associated with a marked decline in glutathione, a reduced capacity to regenerate ascorbate, and upregulation of alternative oxidase and manganese superoxide dismutase. In the cytosol, there were consistent reductions in the protein concentrations of carbon metabolism enzymes, inhibition of protein synthesis and increase in serine proteinase activity, disorganization of cytoskeleton, and a sharp reduction of cytosolic proteins, but no detectable accumulation of oxidized molecules. We conclude that nodule mitochondria are an early target of oxidative modifications and a likely source of redox signals. Alternative oxidase and manganese superoxide dismutase may play important roles in controlling ROS concentrations and the redox state of mitochondria. The finding that specific methionine residues of a cytosolic glutamine synthetase isoform are sulfoxidized suggests a regulatory role of this enzyme in senescing nodules.

Identification and Dynamic Regulation of microRNAs Involved in Salt Stress Responses in Functional Soybean Nodules by High-Throughput Sequencing

Both symbiosis between legumes and rhizobia and nitrogen fixation in functional nodules are dramatically affected by salt stress. Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate the salt tolerance of functional nodules is essential for genetic improvement of nitrogen fixation efficiency. microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in stress responses in many plants and in symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) in soybean. However, the dynamic regulation of miRNAs in functioning nodules during salt stress response remains unknown. We performed deep sequencing of miRNAs to understand the miRNA expression profile in normal or salt stressed-soybean mature nodules. We identified 110 known miRNAs belonging to 61 miRNA families and 128 novel miRNAs belonging to 64 miRNA families. Among them, 104 miRNAs were dramatically differentially expressed (>2-fold or detected only in one library) during salt stress. qRT-PCR analysis of eight miRNAs confirmed that these miRNAs were dynamically regulated in response to salt stress in functional soybean nodules. These data significantly increase the number of miRNAs known to be expressed in soybean nodules, and revealed for the first time a dynamic regulation of miRNAs during salt stress in functional nodules. The findings suggest great potential for miRNAs in functional soybean nodules during salt stress.

Small RNA pathways and diversity in model legumes: lessons from genomics

Small non-coding RNAs (smRNA) participate in the regulation of development, cell differentiation, adaptation to environmental constraints and defense responses in plants. They negatively regulate gene expression by degrading specific mRNA targets, repressing their translation or modifying chromatin conformation through homologous interaction with target loci. MicroRNAs (miRNA) and short-interfering RNAs (siRNA) are generated from long double stranded RNA (dsRNA) that are cleaved into 20-24-nucleotide dsRNAs by RNase III proteins called DICERs (DCL). One strand of the duplex is then loaded onto effective complexes containing different ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins. In this review, we explored smRNA diversity in model legumes and compiled available data from miRBAse, the miRNA database, and from 22 reports of smRNA deep sequencing or miRNA identification genome-wide in three legumes: Medicago truncatula, soybean (Glycine max) and Lotus japonicus. In addition to conserved miRNAs present in other plant species, 229, 179, and 35 novel miRNA families were identified respectively in these 3 legumes, among which several seems legume-specific. New potential functions of several miRNAs in the legume-specific nodulation process are discussed. Furthermore, a new category of siRNA, the phased siRNAs, which seems to mainly regulate disease-resistance genes, was recently discovered in legumes. Despite that the genome sequence of model legumes are not yet fully completed, further analysis was performed by database mining of gene families and protein characteristics of DCLs and AGOs in these genomes. Although most components of the smRNA pathways are conserved, identifiable homologs of key smRNA players from non-legumes, like AGO10 or DCL4, could not yet be detected in M. truncatula available genomic and expressed sequence (EST) databases. In contrast to Arabidopsis, an important gene diversification was observed in the three legume models (for DCL2, AGO4, AGO2, and AGO10) or specifically in soybean for DCL1 and DCL4. Functional significance of these variant isoforms may reflect peculiarities of smRNA biogenesis and functions in legumes.

Alfalfa nodules elicited by a flavodoxin-overexpressing Ensifer meliloti strain display nitrogen-fixing activity with enhanced tolerance to salinity stress

Nitrogen fixation by legumes is very sensitive to salinity stress, which can severely reduce the productivity of legume crops and their soil-enriching capacity. Salinity is known to cause oxidative stress in the nodule by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Flavodoxins are involved in the response to oxidative stress in bacteria and cyanobacteria. Prevention of ROS production by flavodoxin overexpression in bacteroids might lead to a protective effect on nodule functioning under salinity stress. Tolerance to salinity stress was evaluated in alfalfa nodules elicited by an Ensifer meliloti strain that overexpressed a cyanobacterial flavodoxin compared with nodules produced by the wild-type bacteria. Nitrogen fixation, antioxidant and carbon metabolism enzyme activities were determined. The decline in nitrogenase activity associated to salinity stress was significantly less in flavodoxin-expressing than in wild-type nodules. We detected small but significant changes in nodule antioxidant metabolism involving the ascorbate-glutathione cycle enzymes and metabolites, as well as differences in activity of the carbon metabolism enzyme sucrose synthase, and an atypical starch accumulation pattern in flavodoxin-containing nodules. Salt-induced structural and ultrastructural alterations were examined in detail in alfalfa wild-type nodules by light and electron microscopy and compared to flavodoxin-containing nodules. Flavodoxin reduced salt-induced structural damage, which primarily affected young infected tissues and not fully differentiated bacteroids. The results indicate that overexpression of flavodoxin in bacteroids has a protective effect on the function and structure of alfalfa nodules subjected to salinity stress conditions. Putative protection mechanisms are discussed.

Nitric oxide (NO): a key player in the senescence of Medicago truncatula root nodules

Nitric oxide (NO) is a signalling and defence molecule involved in diverse plant developmental processes, as well as in the plant response to pathogens. NO has also been detected at different steps of the symbiosis between legumes and rhizobia. NO is required for an optimal establishment of the Medicago truncatula-Sinorhizobium meliloti symbiotic interaction, but little is known about the role of NO in mature nodules. Here, we investigate the role of NO in the late steps of symbiosis. Genetic and pharmacological approaches were conducted to modulate the NO level inside root nodules, and their effects on nitrogen fixation and root nodule senescence were monitored. An increase in endogenous NO levels led to a decrease in nitrogen fixation and early nodule senescence, characterized by cytological modifications of the nodule structure and the early expression of a specific senescence marker. By contrast, a decrease in NO levels led to a delay in nodule senescence. Together, our results strongly suggest that NO is a signal in developmental as well as stress-induced nodule senescence. In addition, this work demonstrates the pivotal role of the bacterial NO detoxification response in the prevention of early nodule senescence, and hence the maintenance of efficient symbiosis.

Inhibition of glutamine synthetase by phosphinothricin leads to transcriptome reprograming in root nodules of Medicago truncatula

Glutamine synthetase (GS) is a vital enzyme for the assimilation of ammonia into amino acids in higher plants. In legumes, GS plays a crucial role in the assimilation of the ammonium released by nitrogen-fixing bacteria in root nodules, constituting an important metabolic knob controlling the nitrogen (N) assimilatory pathways. To identify new regulators of nodule metabolism, we profiled the transcriptome of Medicago truncatula nodules impaired in N assimilation by specifically inhibiting GS activity using phosphinothricin (PPT). Global transcript expression of nodules collected before and after PPT addition (4, 8, and 24 h) was assessed using Affymetrix M. truncatula GeneChip arrays. Hundreds of genes were regulated at the three time points, illustrating the dramatic alterations in cell metabolism that are imposed on the nodules upon GS inhibition. The data indicate that GS inhibition triggers a fast plant defense response, induces premature nodule senescence, and promotes loss of root nodule identity. Consecutive metabolic changes were identified at the three time points analyzed. The results point to a fast repression of asparagine synthesis and of the glycolytic pathway and to the synthesis of glutamate via reactions alternative to the GS/GOGAT cycle. Several genes potentially involved in the molecular surveillance for internal organic N availability are identified and a number of transporters potentially important for nodule functioning are pinpointed. The data provided by this study contributes to the mapping of regulatory and metabolic networks involved in root nodule functioning and highlight candidate modulators for functional analysis.

(Homo)glutathione deficiency impairs root-knot nematode development in Medicago truncatula

Root-knot nematodes (RKN) are obligatory plant parasitic worms that establish and maintain an intimate relationship with their host plants. During a compatible interaction, RKN induce the redifferentiation of root cells into multinucleate and hypertrophied giant cells essential for nematode growth and reproduction. These metabolically active feeding cells constitute the exclusive source of nutrients for the nematode. Detailed analysis of glutathione (GSH) and homoglutathione (hGSH) metabolism demonstrated the importance of these compounds for the success of nematode infection in Medicago truncatula. We reported quantification of GSH and hGSH and gene expression analysis showing that (h)GSH metabolism in neoformed gall organs differs from that in uninfected roots. Depletion of (h)GSH content impaired nematode egg mass formation and modified the sex ratio. In addition, gene expression and metabolomic analyses showed a substantial modification of starch and γ-aminobutyrate metabolism and of malate and glucose content in (h)GSH-depleted galls. Interestingly, these modifications did not occur in (h)GSH-depleted roots. These various results suggest that (h)GSH have a key role in the regulation of giant cell metabolism. The discovery of these specific plant regulatory elements could lead to the development of new pest management strategies against nematodes.

Antioxidant gene-enzyme responses in Medicago truncatula genotypes with different degree of sensitivity to salinity

Antioxidant responses and nodule function of Medicago truncatula genotypes differing in salt tolerance were studied. Salinity effects on nodules were analysed on key nitrogen fixation proteins such as nitrogenase and leghaemoglobin as well as estimating lipid peroxidation levels, and were found more dramatic in the salt-sensitive genotype. Antioxidant enzyme assays for catalase (CAT, EC 1.11.1.6), superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1), ascorbate peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.11) and guaiacol peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7) were analysed in nodules, roots and leaves treated with increasing concentrations of NaCl for 24 and 48 h. Symbiosis tolerance level, depending essentially on plant genotype, was closely correlated with differences of enzyme activities, which increased in response to salt stress in nodules (except CAT) and roots, whereas a complex pattern was observed in leaves. Gene expression responses were generally correlated with enzymatic activities in 24-h treated roots in all genotypes. This correlation was lost after 48 h of treatment for the sensitive and the reference genotypes, but it remained positively significant for the tolerant one that manifested a high induction for all tested genes after 48 h of treatment. Indeed, tolerance behaviour could be related to the induction of antioxidant genes in plant roots, leading to more efficient enzyme stimulation and protection. High induction of CAT gene was also distinct in roots of the tolerant genotype and merits further consideration. Thus, part of the salinity tolerance in M. truncatula is related to induction and sustained expression of highly regulated antioxidant mechanisms.

Photosynthetic capacity of Arabidopsis plants at the reproductive stage tolerates γ irradiation

The developmental stage has an influence on the overall responses of plants under biotic or abiotic stress conditions. However, there is a lack of data about the effects of ionizing radiation in plants at different developmental stages. We examined radiation sensitivity of Arabidopsis plants in terms of photosynthetic ability and oxidative stress resistance at two distinct vegetative and reproductive stages, which correspond to 23 and 43 d after seeding (DAS), respectively. When plants were exposed to γ rays at a dose rate 50 Gy h(-1) for 4 h, they were characterized as various common or differential cellular responses depending on the developmental stage. Radial expansion of leaves, inhibition of non-photochemical quenching, and production of •O(2)(-) and H(2)O(2) under methyl viologen-induced photooxidative stress were commonly more conspicuous in the irradiated leaves of both plants than in the respective control. In contrast, the 23 and 43-DAS plants were explicitly discriminated in growth, chloroplast number & ultrastructure, photosynthetic pigment content & activity, and protein damage after γ irradiation. Natural leaf senescence was thereby enhanced in the irradiated leaves of the 23-DAS plants, while it was reversely alleviated in those of the 43-DAS ones. These results suggest that photosynthetic machineries of Arabidopsis plants at the reproductive stage can be relatively tolerant to γ rays of 200 Gy.

Nitrogen fixation persists under conditions of salt stress in transgenic Medicago truncatula plants expressing a cyanobacterial flavodoxin

Several recent studies have demonstrated that the expression of a cyanobacterial flavodoxin in plants can provide tolerance to a wide range of environmental stresses. Indeed, this strategy has been proposed as a potentially powerful biotechnological tool to generate multiple-tolerant crops. To determine whether flavodoxin expression specifically increased tolerance to salt stress and whether it might also preserve legume nitrogen fixation under saline conditions, the flavodoxin gene was introduced into the model legume Medicago truncatula. Expression of flavodoxin did not confer saline tolerance to the whole plant, although the sensitive nitrogen-fixing activity was maintained under salt stress in flavodoxin-expressing plants. Our results indicate that flavodoxin induced small but significant changes in the enzymatic activities involved in the nodule redox balance that might be responsible for the positive effect on nitrogen fixation. Expression of flavodoxin can be regarded as a potential tool to improve legume symbiotic performance under salt stress, and possibly other environmental stresses.

The efficiency of nitrogen fixation of the model legume Medicago truncatula (Jemalong A17) is low compared to Medicago sativa

Medicago truncatula (Gaertn.) (barrel medic) serves as a model legume in plant biology. Numerous studies have addressed molecular aspects of the biology of M. truncatula, while comparatively little is known about the efficiency of N(2) fixation at the whole plant level. The objective of the present study was to compare the efficiency of N(2) fixation of M. truncatula to the genetically closely related Medicago sativa (L.) (alfalfa). The relative growth of both species relying exclusively on N(2) fixation versus nitrate nutrition, H(2) evolution, nitrogen assimilation, the concentration of amino acids and organic acids in nodules, and (15)N(2) uptake and distribution were studied. M. truncatula showed much lower efficiency of N(2) fixation. Nodule-specific activity was several-fold lower when compared to M. sativa, partially as a result of a lower electron allocation to N(2) versus H(+). M. truncatula or M. sativa plants grown solely on N(2) fixation as a nitrogen source reached about 30% or 80% of growth, respectively, when compared to plants supplied with sufficient nitrate. Moreover, M. truncatula had low %N in shoots and a lower allocation of (15)N to shoots during 1h (15)N(2) labeling period. Amino acid concentration was about 20% higher in M. sativa nodules, largely as a result of more asparagine, while the organic acid concentration was about double in M. sativa, coinciding with a six-fold higher concentration of malate. Total soluble protein in nodules was about three times lower in M. truncatula and the pattern of enzyme activity in that fraction was strongly different. Sucrose cleaving enzymes displayed higher activity in M. truncatula nodules, while the activity of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) was much lower. It is concluded that the low efficiency of the M. truncatula symbiotic system is related to a low capacity of organic acid formation and limited nitrogen export from nodules.

Metabolic and structural rearrangement during dark-induced autophagy in soybean (Glycine max L.) nodules: an electron microscopy and 31P and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance study

The effects of dark-induced stress on the evolution of the soluble metabolites present in senescent soybean (Glycine max L.) nodules were analysed in vitro using (13)C- and (31)P-NMR spectroscopy. Sucrose and trehalose were the predominant soluble storage carbons. During dark-induced stress, a decline in sugars and some key glycolytic metabolites was observed. Whereas 84% of the sucrose disappeared, only one-half of the trehalose was utilised. This decline coincides with the depletion of Gln, Asn, Ala and with an accumulation of ureides, which reflect a huge reduction of the N(2) fixation. Concomitantly, phosphodiesters and compounds like P-choline, a good marker of membrane phospholipids hydrolysis and cell autophagy, accumulated in the nodules. An autophagic process was confirmed by the decrease in cell fatty acid content. In addition, a slight increase in unsaturated fatty acids (oleic and linoleic acids) was observed, probably as a response to peroxidation reactions. Electron microscopy analysis revealed that, despite membranes dismantling, most of the bacteroids seem to be structurally intact. Taken together, our results show that the carbohydrate starvation induced in soybean by dark stress triggers a profound metabolic and structural rearrangement in the infected cells of soybean nodule which is representative of symbiotic cessation.