Terpenoid Biosynthesis Pathways

Terpenoid biosynthesis pathways are the enzymatic routes through which cannabis plants produce terpenes—volatile organic compounds responsible for characteristic aromas and flavors. These pathways begin with primary metabolites (acetyl-CoA and pyruvate) and branch into multiple routes: the mevalonate pathway (cytoplasmic) and the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway (plastidic), which eventually converge to produce isoprene units. Terpene synthases then catalyze the cyclization and rearrangement of these precursors into hundreds of distinct monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. Understanding these biochemical processes is essential for breeders seeking to select or develop cultivars with specific terpene profiles, as genetic variation in key enzyme expression directly influences final aroma composition.

Breeders working in advanced cultivar development study terpenoid pathway genetics to identify and stabilize chemotypes with predictable aroma profiles across generations. Knowledge of pathway regulation helps inform marker-assisted selection strategies and informed crossings aimed at enhancing specific volatile compound accumulation.