Cannabinoid Synthases
Cannabinoid synthases are enzymes responsible for producing the major cannabinoids THC and CBD from their precursor, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). These enzymatic pathways are controlled by specific genes (THCA synthase and CBDA synthase) present in cannabis plant genetics. The ratio and activity of these synthases directly determine cannabinoid profiles in a cultivar—high THCA synthase activity typically correlates with THC-dominant strains, while elevated CBDA synthase activity produces CBD-dominant plants. Breeders and genetic researchers study synthase expression patterns to understand and predict cannabinoid composition. This enzymatic foundation underpins all major cannabinoid classification in cannabis breeding programs.
Cannabinoid Synthases strains
No strains tagged into Cannabinoid Synthases yet — they'll appear here as breeders submit lineage records under this aroma.
Cannabinoid synthases are enzymes responsible for producing the major cannabinoids THC and CBD from their precursor, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). These enzymatic pathways are controlled by specific genes (THCA synthase and CBDA synthase) present in cannabis plant genetics. The ratio and activity of these synthases directly determine cannabinoid profiles in a cultivar—high THCA synthase activity typically correlates with THC-dominant strains, while elevated CBDA synthase activity produces CBD-dominant plants. Breeders and genetic researchers study synthase expression patterns to understand and predict cannabinoid composition. This enzymatic foundation underpins all major cannabinoid classification in cannabis breeding programs.
Plant breeders exploit natural variation in synthase gene expression to develop strains with target cannabinoid ratios. Understanding synthase activity is critical for breeding CBD-rich, THC-rich, or balanced 1:1 cultivars, making enzyme genetics a core tool in modern cannabis horticulture.
Educational reference · Cultivar metadata only · No medical claims