10.1007/s00203-019-01623-1
The research investigates the biotransformation of benzoin to benzamide by the plant endophyte Sphingomonas sp. LK11 and its effects on the growth and stress tolerance of Cucumis sativus (cucumber). The study found that Sphingomonas sp. LK11 can convert benzoin to benzamide, which acts as an abiotic stress agent when applied to cucumber plants, reducing their agronomic potential. However, when the plants were inoculated with Sphingomonas sp. LK11 along with benzamide, the negative effects were mitigated, and the plants' growth and stress tolerance were improved. The inoculated plants showed higher levels of chlorophyll b and carotenoids, indicating enhanced photosynthetic capacity and stress tolerance. The study also revealed that Sphingomonas sp. LK11 could regulate oxidative stress by reducing the levels of peroxidase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in benzamide-treated plants. The findings suggest that Sphingomonas sp. LK11 has potential for plant growth promotion and stress tolerance through its biotransformation capabilities and its ability to modulate plant physiological processes.
