Leguminous nodule symbiosis involves recruitment of factors contributing to lateral root development

Legumes and several plant species in the monophyletic nitrogen-fixing Glade produce root nodules that function as symbiotic organs and establish mutualistic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. The modes of nodule organogenesis are distinct from those of lateral root development and also differ among different types of nodules formed in legumes and actinorhizal plants. It is considered that the evolution of new organs occurs through rearrangement of molecular networks interposed by certain neo-functionalized factors. Accumulating evidence has suggested that root nodule organogenesis involves root or lateral root developmental pathways. This review describes the current knowledge about the factors/ pathways acquired by the common ancestor of the nitrogen-fixing Glade in order to control nodule organogenesis.

Automated summary

The formation of root nodules in legumes and actinorhizal plants involves distinct processes compared to lateral root development, with different types of nodules showing variation. Evolution of new organs like root nodules is believed to occur through rearrangement of molecular networks guided by neo-functionalized factors. Evidence suggests that root nodule formation is linked to root or lateral root developmental pathways acquired by the common ancestor of nitrogen-fixing Glade.