Caryophyllene Biosynthesis

Caryophyllene biosynthesis refers to the enzymatic pathways through which cannabis plants produce β-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene abundant in many cultivars. This volatile compound is synthesized via the mevalonate pathway, with caryophyllene synthase catalyzing the final cyclization step from farnesyl diphosphate. Lineage records frequently report elevated caryophyllene in Haze, Diesel, and Pepper-type cannabis families, though expression varies significantly across phenotypes and growing conditions. The trait is heritable but polygenic, controlled by multiple genes alongside environmental factors like stress, light exposure, and harvest timing. Understanding caryophyllene biosynthesis helps breeders identify parent plants with consistent terpene profiles and informs decisions about cultivation practices that may enhance or suppress this volatile.

Breeders working in this category select for stable caryophyllene production by tracking terpene expression across generations and crossing high-producing individuals. Knowledge of biosynthetic pathways allows targeted crosses aimed at consistent flavor and aroma phenotypes in seed development.