Homocitrate is an essential component of the enzyme nitrogenase, which is required for nitrogen fixation. However, the NifV gene, which encodes homocitrate synthase, is not present in most rhizobial species that require symbiotic association with legumes to perform efficient nitrogen fixation. The FEN1 gene of a model legume, Lotus japonicus, is now shown to overcome the lack of NifV in rhizobia for symbiotic nitrogen fixation.
- Tsuneo Hakoyama
- Kaori Niimi
- Norio Suganuma
