Benzoic acid transformation via conjugation with peptides and final fate of conjugates in higher plants.

Transformation of [1(14)C]- and [7(14)C] benzoic acids in sterile seedlings of maize (Zea mays) and pea (Pisum sativum) was studied. The tested labeled compounds were supplied in plants through roots as water solutions. The larger part of the assimilated benzoic acid forms conjugates with low-molecular-weight plant peptides.