Production of a putative phytosiderophore by soybeans in response to iron deficiency stress

Abstract

A compound has been isolated from sterile iron‐free hydroponic culture of soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr. cv. Amsoy 71) which, following thin‐layer chromatography, gives a brown reaction with Fe³⁺, a violet reaction with VO₃ ^‐, is ninhydrin positive, and tests positively for hydroxylamine nitrogen, but does not support growth of Arthrobacter flavescens JG‐9. The compound is produced in greater amounts in iron‐free than in complete nutrient culture. It is suggested that the compound is a siderophore produced by the plant in response to iron stress.

Key words:

• Iron stress response
• siderophore
• soybean