Which one among the following is the correct function of leghaemoglobin?
Which one among the following is the correct function of leghaemoglobin?
Select an option to attempt
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation
Leghemoglobin in root nodules:Root nodules formed by Rhizobium in legume roots are the site of nitrogen fixation. A critical problem: nitrogenase (the N-fixing enzyme) is extremely sensitive to oxygen (inactivates it), yet aerobic respiration is needed to power nitrogen fixation.Solution — Leghemoglobin:• A plant hemoglobin (the globin part is plant-encoded; the heme is Rhizobium-encoded).• Has exceptionally HIGH oxygen affinity (Kd ~10 nM, much higher than myoglobin).• Functions as an oxygen BUFFER/SCAVENGER: maintains freeat a very low level (~10–50 nM) in the nodule interior — microaerobic conditions.• This protects nitrogenase fromdamage while still allowing enoughfor ATP generation by Rhizobium.The pink/red colour of healthy root nodules comes from leghemoglobin (an indicator of active nitrogen fixation).Answer: Leghemoglobin has high O₂ affinity and sequesters O₂ to maintain microaerobic conditions protecting nitrogenase.