Wageningen University Researchers Revive Ancestral Cannabis Enzymes for Medical Innovation
Wageningen University researchers have revived ancestral cannabis enzymes, potentially revolutionizing medical cannabinoid production with more robust and versatile enzymes
Key Points
- 1Wageningen University revives ancestral cannabis enzymes for research
- 2Ancestral enzymes can produce multiple cannabinoids simultaneously
- 3These enzymes are more robust and easier to replicate than modern ones
- 4Cannabichromene (CBC) is a focus due to its medicinal properties
- 5Potential exists for developing new medicinal cannabis strains
Researchers at Wageningen University have successfully revived ancestral cannabis enzymes, shedding light on their potential to enhance the production of anti-inflammatory and painkilling cannabinoids. This breakthrough could pave the way for innovative medicinal applications, as these enzymes are more versatile and easier to replicate than those in modern cannabis plants. The study focuses on cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA), which are produced by specialized enzymes in contemporary cannabis
The research revealed that ancestral cannabis enzymes are capable of producing multiple cannabinoids simultaneously, a trait lost in modern strains. This characteristic makes them a promising candidate for medical applications, particularly in the field of biotechnology and pharmacology. According to researcher Robin van Velzen, the enzymes' robustness and flexibility offer significant advantages. "What was once an evolutionary 'loose end' is now very useful," Van Velzen explained to Nu.nl
One of the cannabinoids highlighted in the research is cannabichromene (CBC), known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Currently, no cannabis plant naturally produces high levels of CBC, but the introduction of these ancestral enzymes could lead to the development of new medicinal cannabis strains. This advancement holds promise for creating plants with enhanced therapeutic benefits, addressing a gap in current cannabis cultivation