Upregulation of Leghemoglobin Biosynthesis in a Leguminous Species Would Most

Question

Upregulation of leghemoglobin biosynthesis in a leguminous species would most likely indicate
A) the plant is suffering from a mineral deficiency.
B) the successful inoculation of nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
C) the plant is suffering from water stress.
D) the plant has been infected with mycorrhizae.
E) an increase in the biosynthesis of amino acids.

Accepted Answer

Leghemoglobin is a protein that is involved in the transport and storage of oxygen in leguminous plants. Its upregulation is a characteristic response to the successful inoculation of nitrogen-fixing bacteria that form symbiotic relationships with leguminous plant roots. These bacteria fix atmospheric nitrogen and convert it into a form that can be used by the plant, and leghemoglobin is necessary to protect the nitrogenase enzyme involved in this process from damage by oxygen.