The in vivo nitrogen isotope discrimination among organic plant compounds

The marriage between stable isotope ecology and plant metabolomics - new perspectives for metabolic flux analysis and the interpretation of ecological archives

Even though they share many thematical overlaps, plant metabolomics and stable isotope ecology have been rather separate fields mainly due to different mass spectrometry demands. New high-resolution bioanalytical mass spectrometers are now not only offering high-throughput metabolite identification but are also suitable for compound- and intramolecular position-specific isotope analysis in the natural isotope abundance range. In plant metabolomics, label-free metabolic pathway and metabolic flux analysis might become possible when applying this new technology. This is because changes in the commitment of substrates to particular metabolic pathways and the activation or deactivation of others alter enzyme-specific isotope effects. This leads to differences in intramolecular and compound-specific isotope compositions. In plant isotope ecology, position-specific isotope analysis in plant archives informed by metabolic pathway analysis could be used to reconstruct and separate environmental impacts on complex metabolic processes. A technology-driven linkage between the two disciplines could allow to extract information on environment-metabolism interaction from plant archives such as tree rings but also within ecosystems. This would contribute to a holistic understanding of how plants react to environmental drivers, thus also providing helpful information on the trajectories of the vegetation under the conditions to come.

Bulk and Compound-Specific Stable Isotope Analysis for the Authentication of Walnuts (Juglans regia) Origins

Walnuts are grown in various countries, and as product origin information is becoming more important to consumers, new techniques to differentiate walnut geographical authenticity are needed. We conducted bulk stable isotope analysis (BSIA) and compound-specific stable isotope analysis (CSIA) on walnuts grown in seven countries. The BSIA consisted of δ13Cbulk, δ15Nbulk, and δ34Sbulk, and CSIA covered δ2Hfatty acid, δ13Cfatty acid, δ13Camino acid, δ15Namino acid, and δ2Hamino acid. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were used for statistical analysis to compare samples from the USA and China. Parameters that yielded significant variations are δ2HC18:1n-9, δ13CC18:2n-6, δ13CC18:3n-3, δ13CGly, δ13CLeu, δ13CVal, δ2HGlu, δ2HIle, δ2HLeu, and δ2HThr. Our findings suggested that CSIA of fatty acids and amino acids can be useful to differentiate the geographical provenance of walnuts.

Effects of different floral periods and environmental factors on royal jelly identification by stable isotopes and machine learning analyses during non-migratory beekeeping

It is crucial to monitor the authenticity of royal jelly (RJ) because the qualities of RJs produced by different floral periods vary substantially. In the context of non-migratory beekeeping, this study aims to identify rape RJ (RRJ), chaste RJ (CRJ), and sesame RJ (SRJ) based on δ13C, δ15N, δ2H, and δ18O combined with machine learning and to evaluate environmental effect factors. The results showed that δ13C (-27.62‰ ± 0.24‰), δ15N (2.88‰ ± 0.85‰), and δ18O (28.02‰ ± 1.30‰) of RRJ were significantly different from other RJs. The δ13C, δ2H, and δ18O in CRJ and SRJ were strongly correlated with temperature and precipitation, suggesting that these isotopes are influenced by environmental elements such as sunlight and rainfall. In addition, the artificial neural network (ANN) model was superior to the random forest (RF) model in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. This study revealed that combining stable isotopes with ANN models and the unique correlation between stable isotopes and environmental factors could provide promising ideas for monitoring the authenticity of RJ.

Compound-Specific 14N/15N Analysis of Amino Acid Trimethylsilylated Derivatives from Plant Seed Proteins

Isotopic analyses of plant samples are now of considerable importance for food certification and plant physiology. In fact, the natural nitrogen isotope composition (δ¹⁵N) is extremely useful to examine metabolic pathways of N nutrition involving isotope fractionations. However, δ¹⁵N analysis of amino acids is not straightforward and involves specific derivatization procedures to yield volatile derivatives that can be analysed by gas chromatography coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC-C-IRMS). Derivatizations other than trimethylsilylation are commonly used since they are believed to be more reliable and accurate. Their major drawback is that they are not associated with metabolite databases allowing identification of derivatives and by-products. Here, we revisit the potential of trimethylsilylated derivatives via concurrent analysis of δ¹⁵N and exact mass GC-MS of plant seed protein samples, allowing facile identification of derivatives using a database used for metabolomics. When multiple silylated derivatives of several amino acids are accounted for, there is a good agreement between theoretical and observed N mole fractions, and δ¹⁵N values are satisfactory, with little fractionation during derivatization. Overall, this technique may be suitable for compound-specific δ¹⁵N analysis, with pros and cons.

Estimating NOx removal capacity of urban trees using stable isotope method: A case study of Beijing, China

It is widely recognized that green infrastructures in urban ecosystems provides important ecosystem services, including air purification. The potential absorption of nitrogen oxides (NO_x) by urban trees has not been fully quantified, although it is important for air pollution mitigation and the well-being of urban residents. In this study, four common tree species (Sophora japonica L., Fraxinus chinensis Roxb., Populus tomentosa Carrière, Sabina chinensis (L.)) in Beijing, China, were studied. The dual stable isotopes (¹⁵N and ¹⁸O) and a Bayesian isotope mixing model were applied to estimate the sources contributions of potential nitrogen sources to the roadside trees based on leaf and soil sampling in urban regions. The following order of sources contributions was determined: soil > dry deposition > traffic-related NO_x. The capacity of urban trees for NO_x removal in the city was estimated using a remote sensing and GIS approach, and the removal capacity was found to range from 0.79 to 1.11 g m^-2 a^-1 across administrative regions, indicating that 1304 tons of NO_x could be potentially removed by urban trees in 2019. Our finding qualified the potential NO_x removal by urban trees in terms of atmospheric pollution mitigation, highlighting the role of green infrastructure in air purification, which should be taken into account by stakeholders to manage green infrastructure as the basis of a nature-based approach.

N uptake, assimilation and isotopic fractioning control δ 15N dynamics in plant DNA: A heavy labelling experiment on Brassica napus L

In last decades, a large body of evidence clarified nitrogen isotope composition (δ¹⁵N) patterns in plant leaves, roots and metabolites, showing isotopic fractionation along N uptake and assimilation pathways, in relation to N source and use efficiency, also suggesting ¹⁵N depletion in plant DNA. Here we present a manipulative experiment on Brassica napus var. oleracea, where we monitored δ ¹⁵N of purified, lyophilized DNA and source leaf and root materials, over a 60-days growth period starting at d 60 after germination, in plants initially supplied with a heavy labelled (δ ¹⁵N_Air-N2 = 2100 mUr) ammonium nitrate solution covering nutrient requirements for the whole observation period (470 mg N per plant) and controlling for the labelled N species (ṄH₄, ṄO₃ and both). Dynamics of Isotopic Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) data for the three treatments showed that: (1) leaf and root δ ¹⁵N dynamics strictly depend on the labelled chemical species, with ṄH₄, ṄO₃ and ṄH₄ṄO₃ plants initially showing higher, lower and intermediate values, respectively, then converging due to the progressive NH₄⁺ depletion from the nutrient solution; (2) in ṄH₄ṄO₃, where δ¹⁵N was not affected by the labelled chemical species, we did not observe isotopic fractionation associated to inorganic N uptake; (3) δ¹⁵N values in roots compared to leaves did not fully support patterns predicted by differences in assimilation rates of NH₄⁺ and NO₃^-; (4) DNA is depleted in ¹⁵N compared to the total N pools of roots and leaves, likely due to enzymatic discrimination during purine biosynthesis. In conclusion, while our experimental setup did not allow to assess the fractionation coefficient (ε) associated to DNA bases biosynthesis, this is the first study specifically reporting on dynamics of specific plant molecular pools such as nucleic acids over a long observation period with a heavy labelling technique.

Shifts in carbon and nitrogen stable isotope composition and epicuticular lipids in leaves reflect early water-stress in vineyards

Changes in leaf carbon and nitrogen isotope composition (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values) and the accumulation of epicuticular lipids have been associated with plant responses to water stress. We investigated their potential use as indicators of early plant water deficit in two grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivars, Chasselas and Pinot noir, that were field-grown under well-watered and water-deficient conditions. We tested the hypothesis that the bulk δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values and the concentrations of epicuticular fatty acids may change in leaves of similar age with the soil water availability. For this purpose, leaves were sampled at the same position in the canopy at different times (phenological stages) during the 2014 growing season. Bulk dry matter of young leaves from flowering to veraison had higher δ¹³C values, higher total nitrogen content, and lower δ¹⁵N values than old leaves. In both cultivars, δ¹⁵N values were strongly correlated with plant water deficiency, demonstrating their integration of the plant water stress response. δ¹³C values recorded the water deficiency only in those plants that had not received foliar organic fertilization. The soil water deficiency triggered the accumulation of C_>26 fatty acids in the cuticular waxes. The compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) of fatty acids from old leaves showed an increase in δ¹³C among the C₁₆-C₂₂ chains, including stress signaling linoleic and linolenic acids. Our results provide evidence for leaf ¹³C-enrichment, ¹⁵N-depletion, and enhanced FA-chain elongation and epicuticular accumulation in the grapevine response to water stress. The leaf δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values, and the concentration of epicuticular fatty acids can be used as reliable and sensitive indicators of plant water deficit even when the level of water stress is low to moderate. They could also be used, particularly the more cost-efficient δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N measurements, for periodic biogeochemical mapping of the plant water availability at the vineyard and regional scale.

Glomalin-related soil protein enriched in δ13C and δ15N excels at storing blue carbon in mangrove wetlands

Glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) derived from arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can be transported from land to sea and captured in mangrove wetlands, thereby contributing to soil C and N pools. However, the stable isotope signatures of GRSP and the key influencing factors that affect its isotope values in coastal wetlands remain unknown. In this study, the results showed that total-GRSP (T-GRSP) was a significant contributor of C and N content to mangrove soil. We first compared stable isotope (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N) values and C/N ratios of GRSP with those of other blue carbon sources in a typical mangrove wetland. The isotope fingerprints of T-GRSP, mangrove soils, mangrove plants, and tidal waters were identified. Unlike those of the conventional sources, the δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values of T-GRSP were -25.04‰ to -22.83‰ and 3.22‰ to 7.24‰, respectively, and the mean C/N ratio was 12.95 in the mangrove cover sites. These findings indicated that T-GRSP is a novel blue carbon source mainly originating from terrestrial ecosystems. Moreover, the δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values of T-GRSP in mangrove wetlands were affected by vegetation interception and soil properties. Redundancy analysis results indicated that pH, moisture, depth, and salinity were key factors influencing the T-GRSP isotope fingerprints in mangrove wetlands. Additionally, the simultaneous changes in T-GRSP content, isotope values, and C/N ratios among mangrove cover sites, a mudflat, and tidal waters suggested that this protein is a sensitive tracer between land and sea. Overall, the isotope signatures of GRSP captured by mangroves were identified for the first time, which will have important implications for the estimation of the blue carbon budget and identification of the blue carbon sources in global coastal regions.

δ15 N values in plants are determined by both nitrate assimilation and circulation

Nitrogen (N) assimilation is associated with ¹⁴ N/¹⁵ N fractionation such that plant tissues are generally ¹⁵ N-depleted compared to source nitrate. In addition to nitrate concentration, the δ¹⁵ N value in plants is also influenced by isotopic heterogeneity amongst organs and metabolites. However, our current understanding of δ¹⁵ N values in nitrate is limited by the relatively small number of compound-specific data. We extensively measured δ¹⁵ N in nitrate at different time points, in sunflower and oil palm grown at fixed nitrate concentration, with nitrate circulation being varied using potassium (K) conditions and waterlogging. There were strong interorgan δ¹⁵ N differences for contrasting situations between the two species, and a high ¹⁵ N-enrichment in root nitrate. Modelling shows that this ¹⁵ N-enrichment can be explained by nitrate circulation and compartmentalisation whereby despite a numerically small flux value, the backflow of nitrate to roots via the phloem can lead to a c. 30‰ difference between leaves and roots. Accordingly, waterlogging and low K conditions, which down-regulate sap circulation, cause a decrease in the leaf-to-root isotopic difference. Our study thus suggests that plant δ¹⁵ N can be used as a natural tracer of N fluxes between organs and highlights the potential importance of δ¹⁵ N of circulating phloem nitrate.

Exploring cycad foliage as an archive of the isotopic composition of atmospheric nitrogen

Molecular nitrogen (N₂ ) constitutes the majority of Earth's modern atmosphere, contributing ~0.79 bar of partial pressure (pN₂ ). However, fluctuations in pN₂ may have occurred on 10⁷ -10⁹  year timescales in Earth's past, perhaps altering the isotopic composition of atmospheric nitrogen. Here, we explore an archive that may record the isotopic composition of atmospheric N₂ in deep time: the foliage of cycads. Cycads are ancient gymnosperms that host symbiotic N₂ -fixing cyanobacteria in modified root structures known as coralloid roots. All extant species of cycads are known to host symbionts, suggesting that this N₂ -fixing capacity is perhaps ancestral, reaching back to the early history of cycads in the late Paleozoic. Therefore, if the process of microbial N₂ fixation records the δ¹⁵ N value of atmospheric N₂ in cycad foliage, the fossil record of cycads may provide an archive of atmospheric δ¹⁵ N values. To explore this potential proxy, we conducted a survey of wild cycads growing in a range of modern environments to determine whether cycad foliage reliably records the isotopic composition of atmospheric N₂ . We find that neither biological nor environmental factors significantly influence the δ¹⁵ N values of cycad foliage, suggesting that they provide a reasonably robust record of the δ¹⁵ N of atmospheric N₂ . Application of this proxy to the record of carbonaceous cycad fossils may not only help to constrain changes in atmospheric nitrogen isotope ratios since the late Paleozoic, but also could shed light on the antiquity of the N₂ -fixing symbiosis between cycads and cyanobacteria.

Bulk and compound-specific stable isotope ratio analysis for authenticity testing of organically grown tomatoes

Until now, there has been a lack of analytical methods that can reliably verify the authenticity of organically grown plants and derived organic food products. In this study, stable isotope ratio analysis of hydrogen (H, δ²H), carbon (C, δ¹³C), nitrogen (N, δ¹⁵N), oxygen (O, δ¹⁸O) and sulfur (S, δ³⁴S) was conducted along the tomato passata production process using organic and conventionally grown tomatoes from two Italian regions over two years. A gas chromatography-combustion-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC-C-IRMS) based method was developed and applied for analysis of C and N isotope ratios in amino acids derived from tomatoes. Of the bulk isotope ratios, δ¹⁵N was the most significant parameter for discriminating organic from conventional products. The classification power was improved significantly by compound-specific isotope analysis regardless of the production years and regions. We conclude that isotope analysis of amino acids is a novel analytical tool for complementing existing certification and control procedures in the organic tomato sector.

Combining metabolic flux analysis and adaptive evolution to enhance lipase production in Bacillus subtilis

Metabolic fluxes during lipase production by Bacillus subtilis CICC 20034 in synthetic medium were studied using metabolic flux analysis (MFA). The MFA showed that lipase production was dependent on, and coupled to the tributyrin uptake rate, formation of biomass, lactate, ATP, as well as amino acids from the aspartate and glutamate family. Using tributyrin as the sole carbon source, an adaptive evolution strategy was applied to increase the tributyrin uptake rate. B. subtilis SPZ1 was obtained from CICC 20034 by adaptive evolution over 1000 generations of growth-based selection. The tributyrin consumption rate of strain SPZ1 reached 0.89 g/(L·h) which was 1.9-fold higher than that of the original strain. The MFA indicated that the 212% increase of tributyrin uptake flux contributed to the 556% increase of lipase flux. Consequently, the lipase activity (0.65 U/mL) of strain SPZ1 was 1.9-fold higher than that of the original strain. This was the highest lipase activity obtained by fermentation in synthetic medium reported for Bacillus strains. In complex culture medium, lipase activity of SPZ1 reached 3.3 U/mL.

Stable isotope natural abundances (δ13C and δ15N) and carbon-water relations as drought stress mechanism response of taro (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott)

Taro (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott) is an important staple food crop in tropical and developing countries, having high water requirements. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using carbon and nitrogen isotopic composition (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N) as a physiological indicator of taro response to drought, and elucidation of the relationship between the water use efficiency (WUE) under drought conditions and carbon isotope discrimination (Δ¹³C). As an alternative to WUE determination, obtained by measuring plant growth and water loss during an entire vegetative cycle, we have used Δ¹³C to determine the tolerance of C₃ taro plants to drought. Seven taro accessions from Madeira, Canary Islands and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (Fiji) collections were grown under greenhouse conditions and subjected to different watering regimes during a one-year cycle. Total plant biomass (TPB), WUE and δ¹⁵N were determined at the whole-plant level (WP). Corms and shoots were evaluated separately for nitrogen content (N), δ¹³C, Δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N. WUE showed positive correlation with TPB (r = 0.4) and negative with Δ¹³C (r = -0.3); Corm δ¹⁵N showed positive correlations with WP δ¹⁵N (r = 0.6) and corm N (r = 0.3). Accordingly, the taro plants with enhanced WUE exhibited low Δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N values as a physiological response to drought stress. The approach used in the present study has developed new tools that could be used in further research on taro response to environmental stresses.

Compound-specific δ15N composition of free amino acids in moss as indicators of atmospheric nitrogen sources

Haplocladium microphyllum moss samples were collected in Nanchang, China. Free amino acid (FAA) concentrations and N isotope compositions (δ15NFAA) in the samples were determined and compared with the bulk N concentrations and δ15Nbulk values. The aim was to determine whether δ15NFAA values in moss (which are very variable) indicate the sources of atmospheric N. The δ15NFAA values among individual FAA varied widely (from -19.3‰ to +16.1‰), possibly because of the different sources of N and isotope fractionation in amino acids metabolic pathways. Total 15N-enrichment for the individual FAAs was equal to total 15N-depletion relative to δ15Nbulk. The concentration-weighted mean δ15N value for total FAAs (TFAA) (δ15NTFAA) was -3.1‰ ± 3.2‰, which was similar to δ15Nbulk (-4.0‰ ± 2.9‰). We concluded that a N isotope balance occurred during amino acid metabolism and that little isotope disparity occurred between the concentration-weighted TFAA and bulk N. We concluded that δ15NTFAA ≈ δ15Nbulk ≈ δ15Nsource. The mean δ15Nalanine (-4.1‰), δ15Nglutamate (-4.2‰), and δ15Nlysine (-4.0‰) were similar to the mean δ15Nbulk, which we attributed to little isotope fractionation occurring during their in situ the metabolic pathways. This suggests that δ15Nalanine, δ15Nglutamate, and δ15Nlysine in moss can be used to indicate the sources of atmospheric N deposition.

Nitrogen isotope signature evidences ammonium deprotonation as a common transport mechanism for the AMT-Mep-Rh protein superfamily

Ammonium is an important nitrogen (N) source for living organisms, a key metabolite for pH control, and a potent cytotoxic compound. Ammonium is transported by the widespread AMT-Mep-Rh membrane proteins, and despite their significance in physiological processes, the nature of substrate translocation (NH₃/NH₄⁺) by the distinct members of this family is still a matter of controversy. Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells expressing representative AMT-Mep-Rh ammonium carriers and taking advantage of the natural chemical-physical property of the N isotopic signature linked to NH₄⁺/NH₃ conversion, this study shows that only cells expressing AMT-Mep-Rh proteins were depleted in ¹⁵N relative to ¹⁴N when compared to the external ammonium source. We observed ¹⁵N depletion over a wide range of external pH, indicating its independence of NH₃ formation in solution. On the basis of inhibitor studies, ammonium transport by nonspecific cation channels did not show isotope fractionation but competition with K⁺. We propose that kinetic N isotope fractionation is a common feature of AMT-Mep-Rh-type proteins, which favor ¹⁴N over ¹⁵N, owing to the dissociation of NH₄⁺ into NH₃ + H⁺ in the protein, leading to ¹⁵N depletion in the cell and allowing NH₃ passage or NH₃/H⁺ cotransport. This deprotonation mechanism explains these proteins' essential functions in environments under a low NH₄⁺/K⁺ ratio, allowing organisms to specifically scavenge NH₄⁺. We show that ¹⁵N isotope fractionation may be used in vivo not only to determine the molecular species being transported by ammonium transport proteins, but also to track ammonium toxicity and associated amino acids excretion.

Interactive Effects of CO2 Concentration and Water Regime on Stable Isotope Signatures, Nitrogen Assimilation and Growth in Sweet Pepper

Sweet pepper is among the most widely cultivated horticultural crops in the Mediterranean basin, being frequently grown hydroponically under cover in combination with CO2 fertilization and water conditions ranging from optimal to suboptimal. The aim of this study is to develop a simple model, based on the analysis of plant stable isotopes in their natural abundance, gas exchange traits and N concentration, to assess sweet pepper growth. Plants were grown in a growth chamber for near 6 weeks. Two [CO2] (400 and 800 μmol mol-1), three water regimes (control and mild and moderate water stress) and four genotypes were assayed. For each combination of genotype, [CO2] and water regime five plants were evaluated. Water stress applied caused significant decreases in water potential, net assimilation, stomatal conductance, intercellular to atmospheric [CO2], and significant increases in water use efficiency, leaf chlorophyll content and carbon isotope composition, while the relative water content, the osmotic potential and the content of anthocyanins did change not under stress compared to control conditions support this statement. Nevertheless, water regime affects plant growth via nitrogen assimilation, which is associated with the transpiration stream, particularly at high [CO2], while the lower N concentration caused by rising [CO2] is not associated with stomatal closure. The stable isotope composition of carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen (δ13C, δ18O, and δ15N) in plant matter are affected not only by water regime but also by rising [CO2]. Thus, δ18O increased probably as response to decreases in transpiration, while the increase in δ15N may reflect not only a lower stomatal conductance but a higher nitrogen demand in leaves or shifts in nitrogen metabolism associated with decreases in photorespiration. The way that δ13C explains differences in plant growth across water regimes within a given [CO2], seems to be mediated through its direct relationship with N accumulation in leaves. The changes in the profile and amount of amino acids caused by water stress and high [CO2] support this conclusion. However, the results do not support the use of δ18O as an indicator of the effect of water regime on plant growth.

Carbon and nitrogen allocation strategy in Posidonia oceanica is altered by seawater acidification

Rising atmospheric CO₂ causes ocean acidification that represents one of the major ecological threats for marine biota. We tested the hypothesis that long-term exposure to increased CO₂ level and acidification in a natural CO₂ vent system alters carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) metabolism in Posidonia oceanica L. (Delile), affecting its resilience, or capability to restore the physiological homeostasis, and the nutritional quality of organic matter available for grazers. Seawater acidification decreased the C to N ratio in P. oceanica tissues and increased grazing rate, shoot density, leaf proteins and asparagine accumulation in rhizomes, while the maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II was unaffected. The ¹³C-dilution in both structural and non-structural C metabolites in the acidified site indicated quali-quantitative changes of C source and/or increased isotopic fractionation during C uptake and carboxylation associated with the higher CO₂ level. The decreased C:N ratio in the acidified site suggests an increased N availability, leading to a greater storage of ¹⁵N-enriched compounds in rhizomes. The amount of the more dynamic C storage form, sucrose, decreased in rhizomes of the acidified site in response to the enhanced energy demand due to higher shoot recruitment and N compound synthesis, without affecting starch reserves. The ability to modulate the balance between stable and dynamic C reserves could represent a key ecophysiological mechanism for P. oceanica resilience under environmental perturbation. Finally, alteration in C and N dynamics promoted a positive contribution of this seagrass to the local food web.

Stable isotopic composition of perchlorate and nitrate accumulated in plants: Hydroponic experiments and field data

Natural perchlorate (ClO₄^-) in soil and groundwater exhibits a wide range in stable isotopic compositions (δ³⁷Cl, δ¹⁸O, and Δ¹⁷O), indicating that ClO₄^- may be formed through more than one pathway and/or undergoes post-depositional isotopic alteration. Plants are known to accumulate ClO₄^-, but little is known about their ability to alter its isotopic composition. We examined the potential for plants to alter the isotopic composition of ClO₄^- in hydroponic and field experiments conducted with snap beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). In hydroponic studies, anion ratios indicated that ClO₄^- was transported from solutions into plants similarly to NO₃^- but preferentially to Cl^- (4-fold). The ClO₄^- isotopic compositions of initial ClO₄^- reagents, final growth solutions, and aqueous extracts from plant tissues were essentially indistinguishable, indicating no significant isotope effects during ClO₄^- uptake or accumulation. The ClO₄^- isotopic composition of field-grown snap beans was also consistent with that of ClO₄^- in varying proportions from irrigation water and precipitation. NO₃^- uptake had little or no effect on NO₃^- isotopic compositions in hydroponic solutions. However, a large fractionation effect with an apparent ε (¹⁵N/¹⁸O) ratio of 1.05 was observed between NO₃^- in hydroponic solutions and leaf extracts, consistent with partial NO₃^- reduction during assimilation within plant tissue. We also explored the feasibility of evaluating sources of ClO₄^- in commercial produce, as illustrated by spinach, for which the ClO₄^- isotopic composition was similar to that of indigenous natural ClO₄^-. Our results indicate that some types of plants can accumulate and (presumably) release ClO₄^- to soil and groundwater without altering its isotopic characteristics. Concentrations and isotopic compositions of ClO₄^- and NO₃^- in plants may be useful for determining sources of fertilizers and sources of ClO₄^- in their growth environments and consequently in food supplies.

Relationship between leaf functional traits and productivity in Aquilaria crassna (Thymelaeaceae) plantations: a tool to aid in the early selection of high-yielding trees

Physiological traits are frequently used as indicators of tree productivity. Aquilaria species growing in a research planting were studied to investigate relationships between leaf-productivity traits and tree growth. Twenty-eight trees were selected to measure isotopic composition of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) and monitor six leaf attributes. Trees were sampled randomly within each of four diametric classes (at 150 mm above ground level) ensuring the variability in growth of the whole population was represented. A model averaging technique based on the Akaike's information criterion was computed to identify whether leaf traits could assist in diameter prediction. Regression analysis was performed to test for relationships between carbon isotope values and diameter and leaf traits. Approximately one new leaf per week was produced by a shoot. The rate of leaf expansion was estimated as 1.45 mm day-1. The range of δ13C values in leaves of Aquilaria species was from -25.5‰ to -31‰, with an average of -28.4 ‰ (±1.5‰ SD). A moderate negative correlation (R2 = 0.357) between diameter and δ13C in leaf dry matter indicated that individuals with high intercellular CO2 concentrations (low δ13C) and associated low water-use efficiency sustained rapid growth. Analysis of the 95% confidence of best-ranked regression models indicated that the predictors that could best explain growth in Aquilaria species were δ13C, δ15N, petiole length, number of new leaves produced per week and specific leaf area. The model constructed with these variables explained 55% (R2 = 0.55) of the variability in stem diameter. This demonstrates that leaf traits can assist in the early selection of high-productivity trees in Aquilaria species.

Comparative effect of salinity on growth, grain yield, water use efficiency, δ(13)C and δ(15)N of landraces and improved durum wheat varieties

Supplemental irrigation with low-quality water will be paramount in Mediterranean agriculture in the future, where durum wheat is a major crop. Breeding for salinity tolerance may contribute towards improving resilience to irrigation with brackish water. However, identification of appropriate phenotyping traits remains a bottleneck in breeding. A set of 25 genotypes, including 19 landraces and 6 improved varieties most cultivated in Tunisia, were grown in the field and irrigated with brackish water (6, 13 and 18dSm(-1)). Improved genotypes exhibited higher grain yield (GY) and water use efficiency at the crop level (WUEyield or 'water productivity'), shorter days to flowering (DTF), lower N concentration (N) and carbon isotope composition (δ(13)C) in mature kernels and lower nitrogen isotope composition (δ(15)N) in the flag leaf compared with landraces. GY was negatively correlated with DTF and the δ(13)C and N of mature kernels and was positively correlated with the δ(15)N of the flag leaf. Moreover, δ(13)C of mature kernels was negatively correlated with WUEyield. The results highlight the importance of shorter phenology together with photosynthetic resilience to salt-induced water stress (lower δ(13)C) and nitrogen metabolism (higher N and δ(15)N) for assessing genotypic performance to salinity.

Stable Isotope Ratio Analysis for Assessing the Authenticity of Food of Animal Origin

The main elemental constituents (H, C, N, O, and S) of bio-organic material have different stable isotopes (² H, ¹ H; ¹³ C,¹² C; ¹⁵ N,¹⁴ N; ¹⁸ O,¹⁷ O,¹⁶ O; ³⁶ S, ³⁴ S, ³³ S, and ³² S). Isotopic ratios can be measured precisely and accurately using dedicated analytical techniques such as isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). Analysis of these ratios shows potential for assessing the authenticity of food of animal origin. In this review, IRMS analysis of food of animal origin and variability factors related to stable isotope ratios in animals are described. The study also lists examples of application of stable isotope ratio analysis to meat, dairy products, fish, and shellfish and emphasizes the strengths and weaknesses of the technique. Geographical, climatic, pedological, geological, botanical, and agricultural factors affect the stable isotope ratios (SIR) of bio-elements, and SIR variations are ultimately incorporated into animal tissue through eating, drinking, breathing, and exchange with the environment, being recorded in the resulting foods. SIR analysis was capable of determining geographical origin, animal diet, and the production system (such as organic/conventional or wild/farmed) for pork, beef, lamb, poultry, milk, butter, cheese, fish, and shellfish. In the case of the hard PDO (protected designations of origin) cheeses Grana Padano and Parmigiano Reggiano it is also used in real-life situations to assess the authenticity of grated and shredded cheese on the market.

Isotopic evidence for nitrogen exchange between autotrophic and heterotrophic tissues in variegated leaves

Many plant species or cultivars form variegated leaves in which blades are made of green and white sectors. On the one hand, there is little photosynthetic CO2 assimilation in white tissue simply because of the lack of functional chloroplasts and thus, leaf white tissue is heterotrophic and fed by photosynthates exported by leaf green tissue. On the other hand, it has been previously shown that the white tissue is enriched in nitrogenous compounds such as amino acids and polyamines, which can, in turn, be remobilised upon nitrogen deficiency. However, the origin of organic nitrogen in leaf white tissue, including the possible requirement for N-reduction in leaf green tissue before export to white tissue, has not been examined. Here, we took advantage of isotopic methods to investigate the source of nitrogen in the white tissue. A survey of natural isotope abundance (δ15N) and elemental composition (%N) in various variegated species shows no visible difference between white and green tissues, suggesting a common N source. However, there is a tendency for N-rich white tissue to be naturally 15N-enriched whereas in the model species Pelargonium×hortorum, white sectors are naturally 15N-depleted, indicating that changes in metabolic composition and/or N-partitioning may occur. Isotopic labelling with 15N-nitrate on illuminated leaf discs clearly shows that the white tissue assimilates little nitrogen and thus relies on nitrate reduction and metabolism in the green tissue. The N-sink represented by the white tissue is considerable, accounting for nearly 50% of total assimilated nitrate.

Leaf δ(15)N as a physiological indicator of the responsiveness of N2-fixing alfalfa plants to elevated [CO2], temperature and low water availability

The natural (15)N/(14)N isotope composition (δ(15)N) of a tissue is a consequence of its N source and N physiological mechanisms in response to the environment. It could potentially be used as a tracer of N metabolism in plants under changing environmental conditions, where primary N metabolism may be complex, and losses and gains of N fluctuate over time. In order to test the utility of δ(15)N as an indicator of plant N status in N2-fixing plants grown under various environmental conditions, alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) plants were subjected to distinct conditions of [CO2] (400 vs. 700 μmol mol(-1)), temperature (ambient vs. ambient +4°C) and water availability (fully watered vs. water deficiency-WD). As expected, increased [CO2] and temperature stimulated photosynthetic rates and plant growth, whereas these parameters were negatively affected by WD. The determination of δ(15)N in leaves, stems, roots, and nodules showed that leaves were the most representative organs of the plant response to increased [CO2] and WD. Depletion of heavier N isotopes in plants grown under higher [CO2] and WD conditions reflected decreased transpiration rates, but could also be related to a higher N demand in leaves, as suggested by the decreased leaf N and total soluble protein (TSP) contents detected at 700 μmol mol(-1) [CO2] and WD conditions. In summary, leaf δ(15)N provides relevant information integrating parameters which condition plant responsiveness (e.g., photosynthesis, TSP, N demand, and water transpiration) to environmental conditions.

Isotopic characterization as a screening tool in authentication of organic produce commercially available in western North America

The use of nitrogen stable isotopes to discriminate between conventionally and organically grown crops has been further developed in this study. Soil and irrigation water from different regions, as well as nitrogen fertilizers used, have been examined in detail to determine their effects on nitrogen isotope composition of spinach, lettuce, broccoli and tomatoes. Over 1000 samples of various types of organically and conventionally grown produce of known origin, along with the samples of nitrogen fertilizers used for their growth, have been analysed in order to assemble the datasets of crop/fertilizer correlations. The results demonstrate that the developed approach can be used as a valuable component in the verification of agricultural practices for more than 25 different types of commercially grown green produce, either organic or conventional. Over a period of two years, various organic and non-organic greens, from different stores in Seattle (WA, USA) and Victoria (BC, Canada), were collected and analysed using this methodology with the objective of determining any pattern of misrepresentation.

Multi-factorial in vivo stable isotope fractionation: causes, correlations, consequences and applications

Many physical and chemical processes in living systems are accompanied by isotope fractionation on H, C, N, O and S. Although kinetic or thermodynamic isotope effects are always the basis, their in vivo manifestation is often modulated by secondary influences. These include metabolic branching events or metabolite channeling, metabolite pool sizes, reaction mechanisms, anatomical properties and compartmentation of plants and animals, and climatological or environmental conditions. In the present contribution, the fundamentals of isotope effects and their manifestation under in vivo conditions are outlined. The knowledge about and the understanding of these interferences provide a potent tool for the reconstruction of physiological events in plants and animals, their geographical origin, the history of bulk biomass and the biosynthesis of defined representatives. It allows the use of isotope characteristics of biomass for the elucidation of biochemical pathways and reaction mechanisms and for the reconstruction of climatic, physiological, ecological and environmental conditions during biosynthesis. Thus, it can be used for the origin and authenticity control of food, the study of ecosystems and animal physiology, the reconstruction of present and prehistoric nutrition chains and paleaoclimatological conditions. This is demonstrated by the outline of fundamental and application-orientated examples for all bio-elements. The aim of the review is to inform (advanced) students from various disciplines about the whole potential and the scope of stable isotope characteristics and fractionations and to provide them with a comprehensive introduction to the literature on fundamental aspects and applications.

Investigating patterns of symbiotic nitrogen fixation during vegetation change from grassland to woodland using fine scale δ(15) N measurements

Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) in woody plants is often investigated using foliar measurements of δ(15) N and is of particular interest in ecosystems experiencing increases in BNF due to woody plant encroachment. We sampled δ(15) N along the entire N uptake pathway including soil solution, xylem sap and foliage to (1) test assumptions inherent to the use of foliar δ(15) N as a proxy for BNF; (2) determine whether seasonal divergences occur between δ(15) Nxylem sap and δ(15) Nsoil inorganic N that could be used to infer variation in BNF; and (3) assess patterns of δ(15) N with tree age as indicators of shifting BNF or N cycling. Measurements of woody N-fixing Prosopis glandulosa and paired reference non-fixing Zanthoxylum fagara at three seasonal time points showed that δ(15) Nsoil inorganic N varied temporally and spatially between species. Fractionation between xylem and foliar δ(15) N was consistently opposite in direction between species and varied on average by 2.4‰. Accounting for these sources of variation caused percent nitrogen derived from fixation values for Prosopis to vary by up to ∼70%. Soil-xylem δ(15) N separation varied temporally and increased with Prosopis age, suggesting seasonal variation in N cycling and BNF and potential long-term increases in BNF not apparent through foliar sampling alone.

Natural abundance (δ¹⁵N) indicates shifts in nitrogen relations of woody taxa along a savanna-woodland continental rainfall gradient

Water and nitrogen (N) interact to influence soil N cycling and plant N acquisition. We studied indices of soil N availability and acquisition by woody plant taxa with distinct nutritional specialisations along a north Australian rainfall gradient from monsoonal savanna (1,600-1,300 mm annual rainfall) to semi-arid woodland (600-250 mm). Aridity resulted in increased 'openness' of N cycling, indicated by increasing δ(15)N(soil) and nitrate:ammonium ratios, as plant communities transitioned from N to water limitation. In this context, we tested the hypothesis that δ(15)N(root) xylem sap provides a more direct measure of plant N acquisition than δ(15)N(foliage). We found highly variable offsets between δ(15)N(foliage) and δ(15)N(root) xylem sap, both between taxa at a single site (1.3-3.4 ‰) and within taxa across sites (0.8-3.4 ‰). As a result, δ(15)N(foliage) overlapped between N-fixing Acacia and non-fixing Eucalyptus/Corymbia and could not be used to reliably identify biological N fixation (BNF). However, Acacia δ(15)N(root) xylem sap indicated a decline in BNF with aridity corroborated by absence of root nodules and increasing xylem sap nitrate concentrations and consistent with shifting resource limitation. Acacia dominance at arid sites may be attributed to flexibility in N acquisition rather than BNF capacity. δ(15)N(root) xylem sap showed no evidence of shifting N acquisition in non-mycorrhizal Hakea/Grevillea and indicated only minor shifts in Eucalyptus/Corymbia consistent with enrichment of δ(15)N(soil) and/or decreasing mycorrhizal colonisation with aridity. We propose that δ(15)N(root) xylem sap is a more direct indicator of N source than δ(15)N(foliage), with calibration required before it could be applied to quantify BNF.

Natural isotopic signatures of variations in body nitrogen fluxes: a compartmental model analysis

Body tissues are generally ¹⁵N-enriched over the diet, with a discrimination factor (Δ¹⁵N) that varies among tissues and individuals as a function of their nutritional and physiopathological condition. However, both ¹⁵N bioaccumulation and intra- and inter-individual Δ¹⁵N variations are still poorly understood, so that theoretical models are required to understand their underlying mechanisms. Using experimental Δ¹⁵N measurements in rats, we developed a multi-compartmental model that provides the first detailed representation of the complex functioning of the body's Δ¹⁵N system, by explicitly linking the sizes and Δ¹⁵N values of 21 nitrogen pools to the rates and isotope effects of 49 nitrogen metabolic fluxes. We have shown that (i) besides urea production, several metabolic pathways (e.g., protein synthesis, amino acid intracellular metabolism, urea recycling and intestinal absorption or secretion) are most probably associated with isotope fractionation and together contribute to ¹⁵N accumulation in tissues, (ii) the Δ¹⁵N of a tissue at steady-state is not affected by variations of its P turnover rate, but can vary according to the relative orientation of tissue free amino acids towards oxidation vs. protein synthesis, (iii) at the whole-body level, Δ¹⁵N variations result from variations in the body partitioning of nitrogen fluxes (e.g., urea production, urea recycling and amino acid exchanges), with or without changes in nitrogen balance, (iv) any deviation from the optimal amino acid intake, in terms of both quality and quantity, causes a global rise in tissue Δ¹⁵N, and (v) Δ¹⁵N variations differ between tissues depending on the metabolic changes involved, which can therefore be identified using simultaneous multi-tissue Δ¹⁵N measurements. This work provides proof of concept that Δ¹⁵N measurements constitute a new promising tool to investigate how metabolic fluxes are nutritionally or physiopathologically reorganized or altered. The existence of such natural and interpretable isotopic biomarkers promises interesting applications in nutrition and health.

Body proteins ensure vital functions, and their constancy is maintained through the tight coordination of many nitrogen metabolic fluxes, but our understanding of how this flux system is regulated, and sometimes dysregulated, remains fragmentary and incomplete. Besides, body tissues are generally naturally enriched in the heavier stable nitrogen isotope (¹⁵N) over the diet: this ¹⁵N bioaccumulation (Δ¹⁵N) varies depending on tissues and metabolic orientations, likely as the result of isotope effects associated to some metabolic pathways. We used a novel approach, combining multi-tissue Δ¹⁵N measurements and their analysis using modeling, to understand how body Δ¹⁵N values relate to nitrogen fluxes. The multi-tissue model we have developed provides a clearer understanding of the metabolic processes that generate isotopic fractionation, and of how tissue Δ¹⁵N values are modulated in response to changes in the body distribution of specific nitrogen fluxes. We show that Δ¹⁵N values tend to rise when the amino acids intake does not optimally fit the metabolic demand, and that Δ¹⁵N values constitute natural and interpretable signatures of nutritionally-induced variations in nitrogen fluxes. This approach constitutes a new promising tool to investigate how nitrogen metabolism is nutritionally or physiopathologically reorganized or altered, and promises interesting applications in many areas (nutrition, pathology, ecology, paleontology, etc).

Nitrate dynamics in natural plants: insights based on the concentration and natural isotope abundances of tissue nitrate

The dynamics of nitrate (NO(-) 3), a major nitrogen (N) source for natural plants, has been studied mostly through experimental N addition, enzymatic assay, isotope labeling, and genetic expression. However, artificial N supply may not reasonably reflect the N strategies in natural plants because NO(-) 3 uptake and reduction may vary with external N availability. Due to abrupt application and short operation time, field N addition, and isotopic labeling hinder the elucidation of in situ NO(-) 3-use mechanisms. The concentration and natural isotopes of tissue NO(-) 3 can offer insights into the plant NO(-) 3 sources and dynamics in a natural context. Furthermore, they facilitate the exploration of plant NO(-) 3 utilization and its interaction with N pollution and ecosystem N cycles without disturbing the N pools. The present study was conducted to review the application of the denitrifier method for concentration and isotope analyses of NO(-) 3 in plants. Moreover, this study highlights the utility and advantages of these parameters in interpreting NO(-) 3 sources and dynamics in natural plants. We summarize the major sources and reduction processes of NO(-) 3 in plants, and discuss the implications of NO(-) 3 concentration in plant tissues based on existing data. Particular emphasis was laid on the regulation of soil NO(-) 3 and plant ecophysiological functions in interspecific and intra-plant NO(-) 3 variations. We introduce N and O isotope systematics of NO(-) 3 in plants and discuss the principles and feasibilities of using isotopic enrichment and fractionation factors; the correlation between concentration and isotopes (N and O isotopes: δ(18)O and Δ(17)O); and isotope mass-balance calculations to constrain sources and reduction of NO(-) 3 in possible scenarios for natural plants are deliberated. Finally, we offer a preliminary framework of intraplant δ(18)O-NO(-) 3 variation, and summarize the uncertainties in using tissue NO(-) 3 parameters to interpret plant NO(-) 3 utilization.

Nitrate reductase (15)N discrimination in Arabidopsis thaliana, Zea mays, Aspergillus niger, Pichea angusta, and Escherichia coli

Stable (15)N isotopes have been used to examine movement of nitrogen (N) through various pools of the global N cycle. A central reaction in the cycle involves the reduction of nitrate (NO(-) 3) to nitrite (NO(-) 2) catalyzed by nitrate reductase (NR). Discrimination against (15)N by NR is a major determinant of isotopic differences among N pools. Here, we measured in vitro (15)N discrimination by several NRs purified from plants, fungi, and a bacterium to determine the intrinsic (15)N discrimination by the enzyme and to evaluate the validity of measurements made using (15)N-enriched NO(-) 3. Observed NR isotope discrimination ranged from 22 to 32‰ (kinetic isotope effects of 1.022-1.032) among the different isozymes at natural abundance (15)N (0.37%). As the fractional (15)N content of substrate NO(-) 3 increased from natural abundance, the product (15)N fraction deviated significantly from that expected based on substrate enrichment and (15)N discrimination measured at natural abundance. Additionally, isotopic discrimination by denitrifying bacteria used to reduce NO(-) 3 and NO(-) 2 in some protocols became a greater source of error as (15)N enrichment increased. We briefly discuss potential causes of the experimental artifacts with enriched (15)N and recommend against the use of highly enriched (15)N tracers to study N discrimination in plants or soils.

Nitrogen isotope discrimination as an integrated measure of nitrogen fluxes, assimilation and allocation in plants

Fractionation of nitrogen isotopes between a plant and its environment occurs during uptake and assimilation of inorganic nitrogen. Fractionation can also occur between roots and the shoot. Under controlled nitrogen conditions, whole-plant and organ-level nitrogen isotope discrimination (Δ(15) N) is suggested to primarily be a function of three factors: nitrogen efflux back to the substrate relative to gross influx at the root (efflux/influx), the proportion of net influx assimilated in the roots and the export of remaining inorganic nitrogen for assimilation in the leaves. Here, an isotope discrimination model combining measurements of δ(15) N and nitrogen content is proposed to explain whole-plant and organ-level variation in δ(15) N under steady-state conditions and prior to any significant retranslocation. We show evidence that nitrogen isotope discrimination varies in accordance with changes to nitrogen supply or demand. Increased whole-plant discrimination (greater Δ(15) N or more negative δ(15) N relative to the source nitrogen δ(15) N) indicates increased turnover of the cytosolic inorganic nitrogen pool and a greater efflux/influx ratio. A greater difference between shoot and root δ(15) N indicates a greater proportion of inorganic nitrogen being assimilated in the leaves. In addition to calculations of integrated nitrogen-use traits, knowledge of biomass partitioning and nitrogen concentrations in different plant organs provides a spatially and temporally integrated, whole-plant phenotyping approach for measuring nitrogen-use in plants. This approach can be used to complement instantaneous cell- and tissue-specific measures of nitrogen use currently used in nitrogen uptake and assimilation studies.

Complexities of nitrogen isotope biogeochemistry in plant-soil systems: implications for the study of ancient agricultural and animal management practices

Nitrogen isotopic studies have the potential to shed light on the structure of ancient ecosystems, agropastoral regimes, and human-environment interactions. Until relatively recently, however, little attention was paid to the complexities of nitrogen transformations in ancient plant-soil systems and their potential impact on plant and animal tissue nitrogen isotopic compositions. This paper discusses the importance of understanding nitrogen dynamics in ancient contexts, and highlights several key areas of archaeology where a more detailed understanding of these processes may enable us to answer some fundamental questions. This paper explores two larger themes that are prominent in archaeological studies using stable nitrogen isotope analysis: (1) agricultural practices (use of animal fertilizers, burning of vegetation or shifting cultivation, and tillage) and (2) animal domestication and husbandry (grazing intensity/stocking rate and the foddering of domestic animals with cultigens). The paucity of plant material in ancient deposits necessitates that these issues are addressed primarily through the isotopic analysis of skeletal material rather than the plants themselves, but the interpretation of these data hinges on a thorough understanding of the underlying biogeochemical processes in plant-soil systems. Building on studies conducted in modern ecosystems and under controlled conditions, these processes are reviewed, and their relevance discussed for ancient contexts.

Cereal grain, rachis and pulse seed amino acid δ15N values as indicators of plant nitrogen metabolism

Natural abundance δ(15)N values of plant tissue amino acids (AAs) reflect the cycling of N into and within plants, providing an opportunity to better understand environmental and anthropogenic effects on plant metabolism. In this study, the AA δ(15)N values of barley (Hordeum vulgare) and bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) grains and rachis and broad bean (Vicia faba) and pea (Pisum sativum) seeds, grown at the experimental farm stations of Rothamsted, UK and Bad Lauchstädt, Germany, were determined by GC-C-IRMS. It was found that the δ(15)N values of cereal grain and rachis AAs could be largely attributed to metabolic pathways involved in their biosynthesis and catabolism. The relative (15)N-enrichment of phenylalanine can be attributed to its involvement in the phenylpropanoid pathway and glutamate has a δ(15)N value which is an average of the other AAs due to its central role in AA-N cycling. The relative AA δ(15)N values of broad bean and pea seeds were very different from one another, providing evidence for differences in the metabolic routing of AAs to the developing seeds in these leguminous plants. This study has shown that AA δ(15)N values relate to known AA biosynthetic pathways in plants and thus have the potential to aid understanding of how various external factors, such as source of assimilated N, influence metabolic cycling of N within plants.

Experimental evidence for diel δ15N-patterns in different tissues, xylem and phloem saps of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.)

Nitrogen isotope signatures in plants might give insights in the metabolism and allocation of nitrogen. To obtain a deeper understanding of the modifications of the nitrogen isotope signatures, we determined δ(15)N in transport saps and in different fractions of leaves, axes and roots during a diel course along the plant axis. The most significant diel variations were observed in xylem and phloem saps where δ(15)N was significantly higher during the day compared with during the night. However in xylem saps, this was observed only in the canopy, but not at the hypocotyl positions. In the canopy, δ(15)N was correlated fairly well between phloem and xylem saps. These variations in δ(15)N in transport saps can be attributed to nitrate reduction in leaves during the photoperiod as well as to (15)N-enriched glutamine acting as transport form of N. δ(15)N of the water soluble fraction of roots and leaves partially affected δ(15)N of phloem and xylems saps. δ(15)N patterns are likely the result of a complex set of interactions and N-fluxes between plant organs. Furthermore, the natural nitrogen isotope abundance in plant tissue is not constant during the diel course - a fact that needs to be taken into account when sampling for isotopic studies.

The influence of leaf-atmosphere NH3(g ) exchange on the isotopic composition of nitrogen in plants and the atmosphere

The distribution of nitrogen isotopes in the biosphere has the potential to offer insights into the past, present and future of the nitrogen cycle, but it is challenging to unravel the processes controlling patterns of mixing and fractionation. We present a mathematical model describing a previously overlooked process: nitrogen isotope fractionation during leaf-atmosphere NH3(g ) exchange. The model predicts that when leaf-atmosphere exchange of NH3(g ) occurs in a closed system, the atmospheric reservoir of NH3(g ) equilibrates at a concentration equal to the ammonia compensation point and an isotopic composition 8.1‰ lighter than nitrogen in protein. In an open system, when atmospheric concentrations of NH3(g ) fall below or rise above the compensation point, protein can be isotopically enriched by net efflux of NH3(g ) or depleted by net uptake. Comparison of model output with existing measurements in the literature suggests that this process contributes to variation in the isotopic composition of nitrogen in plants as well as NH3(g ) in the atmosphere, and should be considered in future analyses of nitrogen isotope circulation. The matrix-based modelling approach that is introduced may be useful for quantifying isotope dynamics in other complex systems that can be described by first-order kinetics.

Whole-plant and organ-level nitrogen isotope discrimination indicates modification of partitioning of assimilation, fluxes and allocation of nitrogen in knockout lines of Arabidopsis thaliana

The nitrogen isotope composition (δ¹⁵N) of plants has potential to provide time-integrated information on nitrogen uptake, assimilation and allocation. Here, we take advantage of existing T-DNA and γ-ray mutant lines of Arabidopsis thaliana to modify whole-plant and organ-level nitrogen isotope composition. Nitrate reductase 2 (nia2), nitrate reductase 1 (nia1) and nitrate transporter (nrt2) mutant lines and the Col-0 wild type were grown hydroponically under steady-state NO₃⁻ conditions at either 100 or 1000 μM NO₃⁻ for 35 days. There were no significant effects on whole-plant discrimination and growth in the assimilatory mutants (nia2 and nia1). Pronounced root vs leaf differences in δ¹⁵N, however, indicated that nia2 had an increased proportion of nitrogen assimilation of NO₃⁻ in leaves while nia1 had an increased proportion of assimilation in roots. These observations are consistent with reported ratios of nia1 and nia2 gene expression levels in leaves and roots. Greater whole-plant discrimination in nrt2 indicated an increase in efflux of unassimilated NO₃⁻ back to the rooting medium. This phenotype was associated with an overall reduction in NO₃⁻ uptake, assimilation and decreased partitioning of NO₃⁻ assimilation to the leaves, presumably because of decreased symplastic intercellular movement of NO₃⁻ in the root. Although the results were more varied than expected, they are interpretable within the context of expected mechanisms of whole-plant and organ-level nitrogen isotope discrimination that indicate variation in nitrogen fluxes, assimilation and allocation between lines.

Quantifying remobilization of pre-existing nitrogen from cuttings to new growth of woody plants using 15N at natural abundance

BACKGROUND

For measurements of nitrogen isotope composition at natural abundance, carry-over of pre-existing nitrogen remobilized to new plant growth can cause deviation of measured isotope composition (δ15N) from the δ15Nof newly acquired nitrogen. To account for this problem, a two-step approach was proposed to quantify and correct for remobilized nitrogen from vegetative cuttings of Populus balsamifera L. grown with either nitrate (δ15N = 58.5‰) or ammonium (δ15N = -0.96‰). First, the fraction of carry-over nitrogen remaining in the cutting was estimated by isotope mass balance. Then measured δ15N values were adjusted for the fraction of pre-existing nitrogen remobilized to the plant.

RESULTS

Mean plant δ15N prior to correction was 49‰ and -5.8‰ under nitrate and ammonium, respectively. Plant δ15N was non-linearly correlated to biomass (r2 = 0.331 and 0.249 for nitrate and ammonium, respectively; P < 0.05) where the δ15N of plants with low biomass approached the δ15N of the pre-existing nitrogen. Approximately 50% of cutting nitrogen was not remobilized, irrespective of size. The proportion of carry-over nitrogen in new growth was not different between sources but ranged from less than 1% to 21% and was dependent on plant biomass and, to a lesser degree, the size of the cutting. The δ15N of newly acquired nitrogen averaged 52.7‰ and -6.4‰ for nitrate and ammonium-grown plants, respectively; both lower than their source values, as expected. Since there was a greater difference in δ15N between the carried-over pre-existing and newly assimilated nitrogen where nitrate was the source, the difference between measured δ15N and adjusted δ15N was also greater. There was no significant relationship between biomass and plant δ15N with either ammonium or nitrate after adjusting for carry-over nitrogen.

CONCLUSION

Here, we provide evidence of remobilized pre-existing nitrogen influencing δ15N of new growth of P. balsamifera L. A simple, though approximate, correction is proposed that can account for the remobilized fraction in the plant. With careful sampling to quantify pre-existing nitrogen, this method can more accurately determine changes in nitrogen isotope discrimination in plants.

Comparative response of δ13C, δ18O and δ15N in durum wheat exposed to salinity at the vegetative and reproductive stages

This study compared the performance of the stable isotope composition of carbon (δ(13) C), oxygen (δ(18) O) and nitrogen (δ(15) N) by tracking plant response and genotypic variability of durum wheat to different salinity conditions. To that end, δ(13) C, δ(18) O and δ(15) N were analysed in dry matter (dm) and the water-soluble fraction (wsf) of leaves from plants exposed to salinity, either soon after plant emergence or at anthesis. The δ(13) C and δ(18) O of the wsf recorded the recent growing conditions, including changes in evaporative conditions. Regardless of the plant part (dm or wsf), δ(13) C and δ(18) O increased and δ(15) N decreased in response to stress. When the stress conditions were established just after emergence, δ(15) N and δ(13) C correlated positively with genotypic differences in biomass, whereas δ(18) O correlated negatively in the most severe treatment. When the stress conditions were imposed at anthesis, relationships between the three isotope signatures and biomass were only significant and positive within the most severe treatments. The results show that nitrogen metabolism, together with stomatal limitation, is involved in the genotypic response to salinity, with the relative importance of each factor depending on the severity and duration of the stress as well as the phenological stage that the stress occurs.

High irradiance improves ammonium tolerance in wheat plants by increasing N assimilation

Ammonium is a paradoxical nutrient ion. Despite being a common intermediate in plant metabolism whose oxidation state eliminates the need for its reduction in the plant cell, as occurs with nitrate, it can also result in toxicity symptoms. Several authors have reported that carbon enrichment in the root zone enhances the synthesis of carbon skeletons and, accordingly, increases the capacity for ammonium assimilation. In this work, we examined the hypothesis that increasing the photosynthetic photon flux density is a way to increase plant ammonium tolerance. Wheat plants were grown in a hydroponic system with two different N sources (10mM nitrate or 10mM ammonium) and with two different light intensity conditions (300 μmol photon m(-2)s(-1) and 700 μmol photon m(-2)s(-1)). The results show that, with respect to biomass yield, photosynthetic rate, shoot:root ratio and the root N isotopic signature, wheat behaves as a sensitive species to ammonium nutrition at the low light intensity, while at the high intensity, its tolerance is improved. This improvement is a consequence of a higher ammonium assimilation rate, as reflected by the higher amounts of amino acids and protein accumulated mainly in the roots, which was supported by higher tricarboxylic acid cycle activity. Glutamate dehydrogenase was a key root enzyme involved in the tolerance to ammonium, while glutamine synthetase activity was low and might not be enough for its assimilation.