  We examine models in which jets are responsible for the formation of the
emission-line spiral structure in IRAS 04210+0400. The kiloparsec-scale radio
lobes in this active galaxy appear to be related to its extended emission-line
spiral structure. The radio structure consists mainly of extended symmetrically
bent, FR\,I-type lobes, which follow the emission-line spiral structure at
their inner edge. In the central region of the galaxy a double radio source is
observed with a separation of approximately 1\,arcsec between its components,
which are extremely well aligned with the hotspot from which the southern lobe
expands outwards. Hill et al (1988) suggested a model for the emission-line
spiral structure invoking compressed interstellar matter, which is dragged away
from the original jet path by the rotating ambient medium. From consideration
of the propagation speed of the jets and the transverse ram pressure exerted by
the rotating environment, we exclude this scenario as a possible origin of the
spiral structure. We favour a model in which the jets themselves are bent by
the rotating interstellar medium and possibly follows the emission-line spiral
arms. We present fits of the model to the observed optical spiral structure.
High sensitivity radio observations will be required to decide on the nature of
the peculiar spiral structure in IRAS 04210+0400.
