Mutation in the pssM gene encoding ketal pyruvate transferase leads to disruption of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae-Pisum sativum symbiosis.

Aims: To study the question whether acidic exopolysaccharide (EPS) modification, e.g. pyruvylation, plays any role in the development of Rhizobium leguminosarum/Pisum sativum symbiosis.