The localization and expression of the hydrogenase in free-living Frankia K
B5 was investigated immunologically and by monitoring activity, focusing on
its relationships with nitrogenase and H-2. Immunological studies revealed
that the large subunit of the hydrogenase in Frankia KB5 was modified post
-translationally, and transferred into the membrane after processing. The l
arge subunit was constitutively expressed and no correlation was found betw
een hydrogenase activity and synthesis. Although H-2 was not needed for ind
uction of hydrogenase synthesis, exogenously added H-2 triggered hydrogen u
ptake in medium containing nitrogen, i.e., in the hyphae. A correlation bet
ween nitrogenase activity and hydrogen uptake was found in cultures grown i
n media without nitrogen, but interestingly the two enzymes showed no co-re
gulation.