LEGHEMOGLOBIN Meaning and
Definition
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Leghemoglobin is a type of oxygen-carrying protein that is found in the nodules of leguminous plants, specifically those that have formed a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria known as rhizobia. It is produced within a specialized cellular structure called a bacteroid, which develops from a rhizobium bacterial cell that has entered the nodule. Leghemoglobin plays a crucial role in facilitating the process of nitrogen fixation, which is the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be utilized by plants.
The primary function of leghemoglobin is to regulate the concentration of oxygen within the nodule and provide a suitable environment for nitrogen fixation to occur. It acts as an oxygen buffer, ensuring that the oxygen levels remain within the optimal range required for efficient rhizobial activity. This is essential because nitrogenase, the enzyme responsible for nitrogen fixation, is highly sensitive to oxygen and can become inactivated by its presence.
Leghemoglobin is characterized by its bright red color when oxygenated, which is in contrast to the more common red pigment found in blood, hemoglobin. The oxygen-binding capacity of leghemoglobin is much greater than that of hemoglobin, enabling it to effectively bind and transport oxygen even under low oxygen tension in the nodule. Additionally, studies have shown that leghemoglobin may also play a role in protecting the rhizobial bacteria from reactive oxygen species, further contributing to the success of nitrogen fixation.
Common Misspellings for LEGHEMOGLOBIN
- keghemoglobin
- peghemoglobin
- oeghemoglobin
- lwghemoglobin
- lsghemoglobin
- ldghemoglobin
- lrghemoglobin
- l4ghemoglobin
- l3ghemoglobin
- lefhemoglobin
- levhemoglobin
- lebhemoglobin
- lehhemoglobin
- leyhemoglobin
- lethemoglobin
- leggemoglobin
- legbemoglobin
- legnemoglobin
- legjemoglobin
- leguemoglobin
Etymology of LEGHEMOGLOBIN
The word "Leghemoglobin" is derived from two components: "legume" and "hemoglobin".
- "Legume" refers to a type of plant belonging to the family Fabaceae, which includes various species of beans, peas, and lentils. The term originated from the Latin word "legumen", meaning "pulse" or "legume".
- "Hemoglobin" is a protein found in the red blood cells of animals, responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It originates from the Greek words "haima" (blood) and "globin" (a globular protein).
"Leghemoglobin" specifically refers to a type of hemoglobin commonly found in the root nodules of legume plants. It has a distinct role in facilitating the exchange of oxygen between the plant and nitrogen-fixing bacteria living symbiotically within the nodules.
