Fatty Acid Metabolism

Fatty acid metabolism in cannabis refers to the biochemical pathways through which the plant synthesizes, stores, and utilizes lipids and fatty acids—key components of cell membranes, energy reserves, and secondary metabolite precursors. Cannabinoids, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds are derived from acetyl-CoA, a central metabolite in fatty acid synthesis, making lipid metabolism foundational to phytochemical production. Breeders and researchers studying this metabolic family examine how genetic variation influences oil production, seed fatty acid profiles, and the efficiency of cannabinoid and terpenoid biosynthesis. Environmental factors such as temperature, light, and nutrient availability significantly modulate these pathways, creating phenotypic variation even within stable genetic lines. Understanding fatty acid metabolism is critical for optimizing yield quality, seed viab

Breeders working with fatty acid metabolism traits focus on plants displaying robust oil production, high seed oil content, and efficient conversion of carbohydrates into lipid-based compounds. Selection for these traits can indirectly influence cannabinoid and terpene expression, since both rely on acetyl-CoA and downstream lipogenic pathways.