Isoprenoid Metabolism
Isoprenoid metabolism refers to the biochemical pathways cannabis plants use to synthesize terpenes, cannabinoids, and other volatile organic compounds. These pathways begin with simple five-carbon building blocks (isoprene units) that combine into larger molecules through enzymatic processes. The mevalonate (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathways are the primary routes, occurring in different cellular compartments. Understanding isoprenoid metabolism is central to cannabis breeding, as it directly governs cannabinoid ratios, terpene profiles, and overall chemotype expression. Genetic variation in the enzymes controlling these pathways creates the diversity of phenotypes observed across cultivars.
Isoprenoid Metabolism strains
No strains tagged into Isoprenoid Metabolism yet — they'll appear here as breeders submit lineage records under this classification.
Isoprenoid metabolism refers to the biochemical pathways cannabis plants use to synthesize terpenes, cannabinoids, and other volatile organic compounds. These pathways begin with simple five-carbon building blocks (isoprene units) that combine into larger molecules through enzymatic processes. The mevalonate (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathways are the primary routes, occurring in different cellular compartments. Understanding isoprenoid metabolism is central to cannabis breeding, as it directly governs cannabinoid ratios, terpene profiles, and overall chemotype expression. Genetic variation in the enzymes controlling these pathways creates the diversity of phenotypes observed across cultivars.
Breeders working with isoprenoid metabolism focus on selecting for stable expression of key enzymes that regulate terpene and cannabinoid production. Lines with predictable isoprenoid output allow more consistent chemotype targeting across generations, supporting development of stable cultivar libraries.
Educational reference · Cultivar metadata only · No medical claims