[Effect of nitric oxide and other nitrogen compounds on the adhesion and penetration of nodule bacteria into root tissues and on growth of etiolated pea seedlings].

The action of sodium nitroprusside, a nitric oxide donor, and other nitrogen compounds (KNO3, KNO2, and (NH4)2SO4) on adhesion and penetration of nodule bacteria into root tissues of etiolated pea seedlings was studied. Only nitroprusside displayed a clearly negative effect on rhizobium adhesion and penetration and seedling growth. This effect was not observed with other nitrogen compounds even at high (20 mM) concentrations. Hemoglobin attenuated the negative effect of nitroprusside on bacteria and seedlings. The results are discussed in the context of the role of nitric oxide in the life of plants and nodule bacteria.