Isoprenoid Biosynthesis
Isoprenoid biosynthesis is the metabolic pathway through which cannabis produces terpenes, cannabinoids, and other volatile compounds. This family encompasses the enzymatic processes that build isoprene units (C5 blocks) into larger molecules—a foundational biochemistry mechanism in the plant. Both the mevalonate (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathways contribute precursors for terpene synthesis, while related pathways generate cannabinoid scaffolding. Understanding isoprenoid biosynthesis is central to cannabis breeding and chemotype selection, as it directly influences the plant's aromatic and cannabinoid profiles.
Isoprenoid Biosynthesis strains
No strains tagged into Isoprenoid Biosynthesis yet — they'll appear here as breeders submit lineage records under this family.
Isoprenoid biosynthesis is the metabolic pathway through which cannabis produces terpenes, cannabinoids, and other volatile compounds. This family encompasses the enzymatic processes that build isoprene units (C5 blocks) into larger molecules—a foundational biochemistry mechanism in the plant. Both the mevalonate (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathways contribute precursors for terpene synthesis, while related pathways generate cannabinoid scaffolding. Understanding isoprenoid biosynthesis is central to cannabis breeding and chemotype selection, as it directly influences the plant's aromatic and cannabinoid profiles.
Breeders working with isoprenoid-focused selection aim to enhance terpene diversity, yield, and stability across generations. Genetic markers linked to key enzymes in these pathways (such as terpene synthases and prenyl transferases) help identify and stabilize desirable chemotypes without relying on phenotype alone.
Educational reference · Cultivar metadata only · No medical claims