Cannabinoid Pathways
Cannabinoid pathways refer to the biosynthetic routes through which cannabis plants synthesize cannabinoids like THC and CBD from precursor molecules. These pathways are regulated by enzyme systems, particularly cannabinoid synthases, which convert cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) into various cannabinoid acids. Understanding these pathways is central to cannabis genetics, as different cultivars express distinct enzyme ratios that determine final cannabinoid profiles. Breeders and researchers track pathway expression to predict and stabilize cannabinoid ratios across generations. Pathway variation is heritable and influenced by both nuclear and potentially cytoplasmic genetic factors.
Cannabinoid Pathways strains
No strains tagged into Cannabinoid Pathways yet — they'll appear here as breeders submit lineage records under this terpene.
Cannabinoid pathways refer to the biosynthetic routes through which cannabis plants synthesize cannabinoids like THC and CBD from precursor molecules. These pathways are regulated by enzyme systems, particularly cannabinoid synthases, which convert cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) into various cannabinoid acids. Understanding these pathways is central to cannabis genetics, as different cultivars express distinct enzyme ratios that determine final cannabinoid profiles. Breeders and researchers track pathway expression to predict and stabilize cannabinoid ratios across generations. Pathway variation is heritable and influenced by both nuclear and potentially cytoplasmic genetic factors.
Breeders select parent plants based on their cannabinoid pathway expression to create stable high-THC, high-CBD, or balanced hybrid lines. Molecular markers targeting cannabinoid synthase genes are increasingly used in breeding programs to accelerate selection for desired cannabinoid ratios.
Educational reference · Cultivar metadata only · No medical claims