Expression of Rhizobium trifolii early nodulation genes on maize and rice plants

Abstract
An IncQ multicopy vector (pKT230) and an IncP1 low-copy-number vector (pRK290), both carrying R. trifolii root hair curling (Hac) genes, were transferred to a Sym plasmid-cured derivative of R. trifolii ANU843. The resulting transconjugants were used to inoculate the monocotyledonus plants sorghum, maize, rice and wheat. Transconjugants carrying the Hac genes on the multicopy vector caused a root hair curling response on maize and rice plants 14 days after inoculation.