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Nitrate assimilation in the forage legume Lotus japonicus L.

Research output: Contribution to Journal/MagazineJournal articlepeer-review

Published
  • Ian M. Prosser
  • Agnes Massonneau
  • Audra J. Smyth
  • Rosi N. Waterhouse
  • Brian G. Forde
  • David T. Clarkson
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<mark>Journal publication date</mark>03/2006
<mark>Journal</mark>Planta
Issue number4
Volume223
Number of pages14
Pages (from-to)821-834
Publication StatusPublished
<mark>Original language</mark>English

Abstract

Nitrate assimilation in the model legume, Lotus japonicus, has been investigated using a variety of approaches. A gene encoding a nitrate-inducible nitrate reductase (NR) has been cloned and appears to be the only NR gene present in the genome. Most of the nitrate reductase activity (NRA) is found in the roots and the plant assimilates the bulk of its nitrogen in that tissue. We calculate that the observed rates of nitrate reduction are compatible with the growth requirement for reduced nitrogen. The NR mRNA, NRA and the nitrate content do not show a strong diurnal rhythm in the roots and assimilation continues during the dark period although export of assimilated N to the shoot is lower during this time. In shoots, the previous low NR activity may be further inactivated during the dark either by a phosphorylation mechanism or due to reduced nitrate flux coincident with a decreased delivery through the transpiration stream. From nitrate-sufficient conditions, the removal of nitrate from the external medium causes a rapid drop in hydraulic conductivity and a decline in nitrate and reduced-N export. Root nitrate content, NR and nitrate transporter (NRT2) mRNA decline over a period of 2 days to barely detectable levels. On resupply, a coordinated increase of NR and NRT2 mRNA, and NRA is seen within hours.