Terpene Synthase Genes

Terpene synthase genes are the enzymatic foundation of cannabis volatile production, encoding proteins that catalyze the conversion of precursor molecules (geranyl pyrophosphate and farnesyl pyrophosphate) into the diverse terpene scaffolds found across cultivars. These genes are expressed primarily in trichomes and are often lineage-specific; breeders working with distinct chemotype families frequently observe inherited patterns in terpene profiles that correlate with specific synthase gene alleles. Understanding terpene synthase genetics allows breeding programs to predict and stabilize aromatic compound expression across generations. Key synthase families include limonene synthase, myrcene synthase, and pinene synthase genes, which are commonly associated with major cultivar chemotypes. Preservation and sequencing of terpene synthase variation remains an active area of cannabis geneti

Breeders selectively work with terpene synthase gene expression to develop stable chemotypes and enhance or suppress specific aromatic profiles in offspring. Mapping synthase gene markers can accelerate chemotype selection in breeding populations.