Characterization of proline, chlorophyll content and protein profile of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars tolerant and susceptible to low nutrient conditions (with 2 tables & 2 figures)

Some biochemical basis for tolerance of bean cultivars to low nutrient conditions are discussed. Two tolerant bean cultivars (Flor de Mayo & Laguna) under low nutrient stress accumulated more proline than sensitive varieties (Garbancillo & Pinamerpa). A 38 kDa protein reached higher concentrations in the tolerant cultivars. Laguna and Pinamerpa contained more chlorophyll than the other varieties. It is suggested that proline accumulation and the specific protein may be involved in the adaptation to marginal nutrient situations.