Ureasa y níquel en la fisiología de las plantas

Abstract

This review compiles and discusses current scientific information relating to the role of urease in plants; moreover, it addresses its catalytic function, distribution, influence of pH on hydrolysis of urea and Ni as a cofactor in its activation. This enzyme is of vital importance in nitrogen metabolism. To be activated, urease requires binding with two nickel (Ni) atoms, and in plant cells it participates in the metabolism of compounds containing nitrogen (N). To date, urease activation appears to be the only enzymatic function of Ni in higher plants. The importance of Ni in the physiological and biochemical processes of plants, and the typical responses to the presence of Ni in soil and plants are discussed. Evidence of a close relationship between urease and Ni in the physiology of some plants is provided, thereby indicating that urease activity could be considered as a biochemical indicator of Ni deficiency before symptoms are visibly present.