Terpene Production in Cannabis under Drought Stress

"It's important to note that the information provided in this section is based on the author's conjecture, drawn from their research and understanding of cannabis evolution."

Introduction:

Drought stress in cannabis plants can significantly impact the production of terpenes, the aromatic compounds responsible for the plant's flavor, aroma, and effects. This stress-induced alteration in terpene composition varies based on factors such as stress duration, cannabis variety, and flowering stage. Consequently, providing a definitive answer to which terpenes increase or decrease under drought stress proves challenging. However, studies have shed light on potential shifts in terpene profiles. This discussion delves into the intricate relationship between drought stress and terpene production in cannabis, offering valuable insights into the plant's adaptive mechanisms. Additionally, plants generally grown with less stress have more relaxing and energetic effects, while strains grown in stressful environments have more psychoactive and sedating effects. Additionally, it is worth noting that drought stress has also been observed to lead to an increase in Cannabigerol (CBG) levels, further emphasizing the complex biochemical responses elicited by this environmental factor.

Increased Terpenes:

  1. Beta-pinene (Humidity Aid) - More water soluble than its alpha counterpart, associated with strains from drier conditions. Aids in efficient humidity absorption.
  2. Myrcene (Stress Reduction) - Linked with inducing a calming presence on the plant, slowing growth to focus on preservation rather than growth. Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress caused by drought.
    • Stress Response Mechanism: Plants produce myrcene in response to environmental stressors for adaptation and survival.
    • Enzyme Activity: Drought stress may alter enzyme activity involved in terpene biosynthesis, potentially leading to increased myrcene production.
    • Genetic Regulation: Drought stress may induce specific genes involved in terpene biosynthesis, particularly those associated with myrcene production.
  1. Limonene (Nature's Sunscreen) - Increases as the plant becomes drier, acting as a natural UV protectant.
  2. Caryophyllene (Nature's Analgesic) - Numbs the plant, keeping it in an improved state during drought stress.
  3. Humulene (Nature's Appetite Suppressant) - Regulates plant metabolism to suppress appetite during drought stress.

Decreased Terpenes:

  1. Alpha-pinene (Humidity Shield) - Less water soluble, helping plants avoid excessive humidity in moist environments.
  2. Linalool (Happy Plant Terpene) - Linked with enhancing photosynthesis, which is not required during drought stress. Also associated with anti-stress and calming effects.
  3. Terpinolene (Regulates Inflammation) - More common in less stressed plants, associated with increased growth(Inflammation) by balancing inflammation with its anti-inflammatory properties.

Ocimene (Pathway Opener) - Associated with a sweet, citrusy aroma, potential antibacterial and antifungal properties. Linked with increased creativity in humans.

  • Observation: Elevated levels of ocimene lead to larger, more open structures in plants. Suggesting more open and efficient energy pathways.

Nerolidol (Absorbtion Enhancer)- Enhances absorption of nutrients in leaves and plant surface, associated with plants with higher humidity to maximize nutrient Absorbtion. plants under drought stress have no need for this terpene.

Farnesene - Further research is needed to establish correlations.

Genetic Regulation and Hormonal Response:

  • Genetic Regulation: Stress triggers a complex genetic response, activating or suppressing specific genes for various physiological processes.
  • Terpene Biosynthesis Genes: Genes involved in terpene production are directly regulated within the plant's genome.
  • Phytohormones (e.g., ABA, JA, ET): Signaling molecules that regulate growth, development, and stress responses. They play a crucial role in drought stress responses.
  • Gene Expression and Terpene Synthesis: Upregulation of genes involved in terpene biosynthesis is influenced by phytohormones associated with drought stress.
  • Specific Hormonal Signaling: Phytohormones like ABA may modulate the expression of genes involved in terpene synthesis, potentially leading to increased myrcene concentration in drought-stressed cannabis plants.

References:

 

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