Myrcene Synthase

Myrcene synthase is a key enzyme in cannabis terpene biosynthesis that catalyzes the conversion of geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP) into myrcene, one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis. This enzyme operates within the plant's plastids and is part of the larger monoterpene synthesis pathway. Expression levels of myrcene synthase vary significantly across cultivars, directly influencing the myrcene content in finished flower and resin. Understanding myrcene synthase activity is relevant to breeding programs seeking to develop or stabilize specific terpene profiles, though direct genetic selection remains complex due to polygenic inheritance and environmental influences on enzyme expression.

Breeders working with myrcene-dominant lines study myrcene synthase expression as one marker within larger terpene-profiling efforts. Cultivars commonly associated with high myrcene content often show elevated myrcene synthase activity, though environmental factors—temperature, light, and stress—also regulate this enzyme's production during plant development.