Myrcene Biosynthesis

Myrcene biosynthesis refers to the plant's metabolic pathway for producing myrcene, a monoterpene commonly found in cannabis flower, trim, and plant tissues. Myrcene typically comprises a significant portion of the terpene profile in many cultivars, often associated with herbal, earthy, and musky aromatic characteristics. The enzyme geranyl pyrophosphate synthase initiates myrcene formation from basic terpenoid precursors. Myrcene concentration and expression vary considerably between genetic lines, influenced by both cultivar genetics and cultivation conditions including light, temperature, and nutrient availability. Understanding myrcene biosynthesis is relevant for breeders selecting for specific aromatic profiles and researchers studying terpene inheritance patterns.

Breeders often track myrcene expression when developing cultivars targeting particular aromatic families. Selective crosses between high-myrcene and low-myrcene lineages help establish stability and predictability of terpene profiles in new F1 hybrids and stabilized lines.