Myrcene Synthase

Myrcene synthase is a key enzyme in cannabis terpene biosynthesis responsible for producing myrcene, one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis plants. This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP) into myrcene, a monoterpene commonly associated with herbaceous, earthy, and clove-like aromatic profiles. Myrcene synthase activity varies significantly across cultivars, influenced by both genetic background and environmental conditions during flower development. Understanding myrcene synthase expression helps explain why certain lineages consistently express higher myrcene levels than others. The enzyme's regulation is a focus of breeding programs aiming to stabilize or enhance specific terpene profiles in new cultivars.

Breeders working with high-myrcene phenotypes often select parent plants with robust myrcene synthase expression to establish stable genetic lines. Analyzing myrcene synthase activity alongside cannabinoid profiles provides molecular markers for identifying and preserving desired aromatic traits across generations.