In recent years, genetic research has transformed how growers and breeders develop new cannabis varieties. Thanks to advances in genetic sequencing, we can now better understand the mechanisms behind the expression of specific traits in cannabis plants, allowing the development of strains that optimize yield, resistance, and chemical profile.
DNA sequencing in cannabis allows growers to produce strains that are not only more potent or aromatic but can also be customized.
The importance of genetics in cannabis varieties
Traditionally, the selection and breeding of new varieties relied on observation and rudimentary cross-breeding techniques.
Today, however, molecular genetics enables much greater precision. By better understanding the genetic structure of a plant, breeders can select and develop varieties that meet specific requirements, whether for recreational or medicinal use.
DNA sequencing allows scientists to map the genome of cannabis plants, making it possible to pinpoint exactly which genes are associated with desirable traits such as high levels of THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids, resistance to diseases, and tolerance to environmental stress.
Genetic sequencing as a tool for developing cannabis varieties
Mapping the cannabis genome is a complex process that involves identifying the genes responsible for producing key compounds like cannabinoids and terpenes.
For instance, scientists in Israel have used genetic sequencing to develop a biometric system that classifies cannabis varieties according to their "genetic fingerprint." This system, developed by Tikun Olam Cannbit, enables the precise identification of strains, which in turn facilitates the breeding of new, specific varieties.
Thanks to this, consumers will be able to purchase cannabis with the certainty that what they are getting matches the explicit genetic characteristics, eliminating the confusion caused by strain names that do not reflect their true composition.
How does genetics benefit consumers and growers?
For consumers, cannabis varieties developed through genetic sequencing offer greater consistency and a more predictable experience. This is particularly useful for patients using medicinal cannabis, as they can find strains specifically adapted to their therapeutic needs, such as pain relief or anxiety reduction.
For growers, it allows them to optimize their crops by selecting strains that not only offer the desired cannabinoid and terpene profiles but are also more resistant to pests and diseases, or better tolerate environmental stress, improving yields and reducing losses.
How does genetics affect the cannabis industry?
The industry is beginning to shift toward a model where consumers can select varieties that perfectly match their needs, whether in terms of cannabinoid content, terpene profile, or even specific effects. This also includes the development of strains that optimize the production of novel cannabinoids like CBC or THCV.
With the ability to identify and patent new varieties, growers and producers are starting to protect their creations as intellectual property. This could radically change the market, creating a more competitive and regulated environment for those investing in genetic technology, positioning themselves to offer higher-quality products and differentiate from the competition.
Innovation in cannabis identification
A team of researchers from the Botanical Institute of Barcelona, in collaboration with Michigan State University, has made an important breakthrough in identifying different cannabis varieties.
They have developed an innovative method to analyze cannabis leaves, overcoming the challenge of their great variability.
This advancement allows for more precise identification of the plant's different varieties, even when the number of leaflets (the smaller parts of the leaf) varies.
How this new method works
The main challenge in analyzing cannabis leaves is that the number of leaflets changes throughout their development. Leaves at the lower part of the plant usually have fewer leaflets than those at the top, and this change does not follow a fixed pattern between plants. This has made it difficult to use traditional techniques that depend on reference points to measure the shape of the leaves.
The team has created a system that "standardizes" leaves with different numbers of leaflets, allowing for more accurate morphometric analysis. In other words, they have found a way to make leaves, regardless of how many leaflets they have, comparable to each other.
This new approach has been tested on more than 300 cannabis leaves, achieving 73% accuracy in identifying both cultivated and wild samples. It is a significant advancement that will not only help classify cannabis varieties but could also be used to study aspects such as the plant's sex or its chemical content.