Terpene Synthesis Pathways
Terpene synthesis pathways represent the biochemical mechanisms by which cannabis plants produce volatile aromatic compounds. These pathways begin with primary metabolism—specifically the mevalonate and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) routes—which generate precursors like isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP). Terpene synthase enzymes then catalyze these precursors into hundreds of distinct terpenes, including limonene, myrcene, pinene, and β-caryophyllene. Genetic variation in terpene synthase expression and regulation directly influences which compounds accumulate in trichomes. Understanding these pathways is foundational for breeding programs seeking to stabilize specific aromatic profiles or explore novel chemotype combinations.
Terpene Synthesis Pathways strains
No strains tagged into Terpene Synthesis Pathways yet — they'll appear here as breeders submit lineage records under this family.
Terpene synthesis pathways represent the biochemical mechanisms by which cannabis plants produce volatile aromatic compounds. These pathways begin with primary metabolism—specifically the mevalonate and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) routes—which generate precursors like isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP). Terpene synthase enzymes then catalyze these precursors into hundreds of distinct terpenes, including limonene, myrcene, pinene, and β-caryophyllene. Genetic variation in terpene synthase expression and regulation directly influences which compounds accumulate in trichomes. Understanding these pathways is foundational for breeding programs seeking to stabilize specific aromatic profiles or explore novel chemotype combinations.
Breeders studying terpene synthesis pathways can identify genetic markers associated with high terpene production and specific terpene ratios, enabling more targeted selection. Lineage records tracking parent plants with documented terpene profiles provide data for predictable offspring chemotype development.
Educational reference · Cultivar metadata only · No medical claims