Proteomic mapping for legume nodule organogenesis

Abstract

While genetic screens have identified mutants of the model legume Lotus japonicus that can nodulate in the absence of rhizobia, the lack of a proteome map is a major hindrance to understanding the functional protein networks associated with this nodulation process. In this issue of Proteomics, Dam et al. (Proteomics 2014, 14, 230-240) developed 2D gel-based reference maps of nodules and roots of Lotus and a spontaneous nodule formation mutant (snf1). Comparative proteomic analysis of roots and two developmental stages of nodules provide useful insights into tissue-specific mechanisms underlying nodule organogenesis. Additionally, a comparison of interspecies nodule proteomes displays that overlapping and individual mechanisms are associated with legume nodulation.

Fourteen years of plant proteomics reflected in Proteomics: Moving from model species and 2DE‐based approaches to orphan species and gel‐free platforms

“…In a similar study in rapeseed, the protein profiles of root, stem, and leaf have been compared . Meristematic tissues and specialized structures such as root nodules , occurring primarily in Fabaceae, that associate with nitrogen‐fixing bacteria have been used in proteomics studies. Finally, extracellular fluids such as root exudates , xylem and phloem sap , and intercellular washing (apoplast) fluid have been analyzed at the protein level.…”