Phytochemical Pathways

Phytochemical pathways describe the biochemical routes through which cannabis plants synthesize cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. These metabolic sequences are controlled by genetics, environmental conditions, and enzyme expression patterns. Understanding pathway regulation helps breeders predict secondary metabolite profiles and develop lines with specific phytochemical compositions. Research into cannabinoid synthase genes, terpene cyclase variants, and phenolic biosynthesis has revealed that minor genetic variations can significantly alter end-product ratios. Documentation of these pathways remains ongoing, with lineage records frequently reporting correlations between parent genetics and offspring phytochemical expression.

Breeders targeting specific terpene or cannabinoid ratios often work within known phytochemical pathway frameworks, selecting parents with complementary enzyme genetics. Understanding pathway bottlenecks and regulatory genes allows more predictable development of consistent chemotypes across generations.