Metabolism of L-canavanine and L-canaline in leguminous plants

Abstract

Massive accumulation of L-canavanine, the 2-amino-4-(guanidinooxy)butyric acid structural analog of L-arginine, occurs in many legumes. Accumulation of large amounts of this nonprotein amino acid results in large part from canavanine's protective efficacy; it forms an effective chemical barrier to predation, disease, and even competition with other plants. Diversion of metabolic resources for the synthesis and storage of appreciable canavanine does not place an inordinate burden on the plant. Catabolism of this nonprotein amino acid provides respiratory carbon, generates essential primary metabolites, and ammoniacal nitrogen for the developing plant.