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

An IncQ multicopy vector (pKT230) and an IncP1 low-copy-number vector (pRK290), both carrying Rhizobium 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 monocotyledonous 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.