The Use of Metronidazole to Isolate Nif- Mutants of Rhodopseudomonas capsulata, and the Identification of a Mutant with Altered Regulatory Properties of Nitrogenase (original) (raw)

The study explores the use of metronidazole to isolate mutants of Rhodopseudomonas capsulata that are defective in nitrogen fixation (Nif-). By employing metronidazole enrichment techniques, the research identifies several Nif- mutants—including one with unique regulatory properties of nitrogenase (RC5). The findings indicate that RC5 has altered nitrogenase activity, suggesting its nitrogenase predominantly exists in the regulatory form A, which is independent of certain activating factors. These insights enhance the understanding of nitrogenase regulation and provide a foundation for further studies on nitrogen fixation mechanisms.