Localization of acid phosphatase activity in the apoplast of root nodules of pea (Pisum sativum)

Abstract

Changes in the activity of acid phosphatase (AcPase) in the apoplast of pea root nodule were investigated. The activity was determined using lead and cerium methods. The results indicated a following sequence of AcPase activity appearance during the development of the infection thread: 1) low AcPase activity appears in the outer part of cells of symbiotic bacteria; 2) bacteria show increased AcPase activity, and the enzyme activity appears in the thread walls; 3) activity exhibits also matrix of the infection thread; 4) bacteria just before their release from the infection threads show high AcPase activity; 5) AcPase activity ceases after bacteria transformation into bacteroids. The increase in bacterial AcPase activity may reflect a higher demand for inorganic phosphorus necessary for propagation of the bacteria within the infection threads and/or involved in bacteria release from the infection threads.