News: Scientists Find 33 Genetic Markers In Marijuana That Can Be Targeted To Breed New ‘Enhanced’ Strains ‘Tailored For Medical And Recreational Uses’.

Published 12:00 AM EST, Fri Jun 06, 2025

The analysis involved use of “a high-density genotyping approach” looking at thousands of molecular markers across the genome of 174 cannabis specimens in Canada, each with known levels of cannabinoids such as THCA, CBDA and CBN.

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A recent study published in The Plant Genome has identified 33 significant molecular markers in the cannabis genome that play a crucial role in cannabinoid production. By using a high-density genotyping approach, researchers from Université Laval in Canada analyzed 174 cannabis specimens with known cannabinoid profiles. These markers are linked to 11 cannabinoid traits, including THCA, CBDA, and CBN, and are expected to accelerate breeding programs by enabling precise selection for desired cannabinoid profiles. This development promises to speed up breeding processes, reduce costs, and improve the quality of cannabis varieties for both medical and recreational uses.

In addition to these genetic insights, the study found a "massive" gene cluster on a chromosome linked specifically to THC-dominant strains, covering about 60 megabases of genetic material. This marks a significant shift from earlier research limitations caused by cannabis prohibition, which hindered genetic collection and breeding practices. With these newly identified markers, breeders can now reduce reliance on phenotype-based selection methods, accelerating the development of optimized cannabis varieties. This breakthrough not only enhances the efficiency of breeding programs but also integrates cannabis cultivation into modern agricultural practices, paving the way for future innovations in the field.

Meanwhile, researchers in South Korea have isolated a new cannabinoid, cannabielsoxa, and identified several other compounds from Cannabis sativa flowers. This discovery, published in Pharmaceuticals, adds to the growing body of knowledge surrounding cannabis' chemical composition and its potential therapeutic applications. While cannabielsoxa was not found to be toxic to cancer cells, its isolation along with other novel compounds signals the possibility of new cannabis-based treatments, further expanding the industry's potential. Additionally, research published by the American Chemical Society in 2023 uncovered previously undiscovered compounds, challenging existing assumptions about cannabis' aromatic profiles. The identification of key genetic markers enhances breeding precision, allowing cannabis producers to create strains with specific cannabinoid profiles tailored for diverse markets. For seed banks, this research opens opportunities for new product offerings, reducing time and costs in the breeding process. Moreover, the discovery of novel cannabinoids and compounds suggests new avenues for innovation in cannabis formulations, whether for medicinal use or consumer products. As legal markets continue to expand, these advancements will drive the next wave of cannabis genetic research and commercial success. Source: Marijuana Moment