Nutrient-dependent regulation of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in legumes

Abstract

Mineral nutrients are essential for plant growth and development, playing a critical role in the mutualistic symbiosis between legumes and rhizobia. Legumes have evolved intricate signaling pathways that respond to various mineral nutrients, selectively activating genes involved in nodulation and nutrient uptake during symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF). Key minerals, including nitrogen (N), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P), are vital throughout the SNF process, influencing signal recognition, nodule formation, the regulation of nodule numbers, and the prevention of nodule early senescence. Here we review recent advancements in nutrient-dependent regulation of root nodule symbiosis, focusing on the systemic autoregulation of nodulation (AON) in nitrate-dependent symbiosis, the roles of NIN-like proteins (NLPs), and the function of essential nutrients and their associated transporters in legume symbiosis. Additionally, we discuss several key research areas that require further exploration to deepen our understanding of nutrient-dependent mechanisms in SNF.