Major Cannabinoid Pathways
Major cannabinoid pathways describe the biochemical routes through which cannabis plants synthesize THC, CBD, and minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and CBN. These pathways are controlled by genetic expression, enzymatic activity, and environmental conditions during flower development. Understanding cannabinoid biosynthesis is central to modern cannabis breeding, as the ratio and presence of specific cannabinoids are largely inherited traits. Breeders select parent plants based on documented cannabinoid profiles to predict offspring composition. The primary pathways diverge at the CBDA/THCA synthase enzyme step, where genetic polymorphisms determine whether a plant produces predominantly acidic THC or CBD precursors. Post-decarboxylation and oxidation further modify cannabinoid profiles during curing and storage.
Major Cannabinoid Pathways strains
No strains tagged into Major Cannabinoid Pathways yet — they'll appear here as breeders submit lineage records under this family.
Major cannabinoid pathways describe the biochemical routes through which cannabis plants synthesize THC, CBD, and minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and CBN. These pathways are controlled by genetic expression, enzymatic activity, and environmental conditions during flower development. Understanding cannabinoid biosynthesis is central to modern cannabis breeding, as the ratio and presence of specific cannabinoids are largely inherited traits. Breeders select parent plants based on documented cannabinoid profiles to predict offspring composition. The primary pathways diverge at the CBDA/THCA synthase enzyme step, where genetic polymorphisms determine whether a plant produces predominantly acidic THC or CBD precursors. Post-decarboxylation and oxidation further modify cannabinoid profiles during curing and storage.
Breeders targeting specific cannabinoid ratios rely on lineage records, test crosses, and phenotypic selection to stabilize desired pathways. Knowledge of whether parent plants carry CBD-synthase or THCA-synthase dominant alleles is essential for predictable F1 and F2 outcomes.
Educational reference · Cultivar metadata only · No medical claims