The production of cannabinoids in cannabis

We often publish articles explaining what cannabinoids, their benefits for humans, and sometimes how to use them. That being said, have you ever wondered how they are produced in the cannabis ? If so, you've come to the right place! In this article, let's explore together how cannabinoids are produced in cannabis.

The summary

• Cannabinoids: a simple overview
• How are these cannabinoids produced in the cannabis plant?

Cannabinoids: a simple overview

It would be inappropriate to discuss cannabinoids without first introducing them. This will ensure we're all on the same page. So, what exactly are these cannabinoids ?

This Wikipedia article defines cannabinoids as follows:

Cannabinoids are a group of chemical substances that activate cannabis receptors present in the human body and in mammals .

 

Source: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabino%C3%AFde

The receiver, on the other hand, is perceived as:

(…) a protein of the cell membrane or cytoplasm or cell nucleus that binds specifically to a specific factor (a ligand, such as a neurotransmitter, a hormone, a drug molecule, a toxin, a calcium ion, or a specific protein of the membrane of a virus, …), inducing a cellular response to that ligand.

 

Source: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/R%C3%A9cepteur_(biochemistry)

That said, we identify three main types of cannabinoids. Namely:

1. Plant cannabinoids ( also called phytocannabinoids): they are present in cannabis.
2. Endogenous cannabinoids (also called endocannabinoids): these are secreted by animal.
3. Synthetic cannabinoids: produced in the laboratory.

Of course, the category of cannabinoids that interests us is the first one (plant-derived). From this perspective, it is important to specify that the cannabis plant alone produces more than 100 cannabinoids of this type.

How are these cannabinoids produced in the cannabis plant?

Indeed, cannabinoid production takes place in what might be called: tiny chemical factories. What exactly are these? We are referring to trichomes.

This Wikipedia article presents them as follows:

Trichomes , meaning "hair growth") are fine outgrowths or appendages found on plants (roots, stems, and/or leaves) and in some unicellular eukaryotes. Examples include hairs, glandular hairs, particularly stinging hairs,^and hairs that have evolved into protective scales. Their function often appears to be primarily defensive, but they can also protect some plants from excessive cold or heat.

 

Source: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichome_(botanique)

This definition uses botanical terminology. Consequently, it might be incomprehensible to some. So, let's take this simplified version from Futura Sciences:

Trichomes are hairs that cover the surface of a plant organ (in varying densities depending on the species and organs considered). In other words, they are the hairs of a plant.

 

Source: https://www.futura-sciences.com/planete/definitions/botanique-trichome-13330/

It is within these small glands that the cannabis plant produces cannabinoids. In this regard, it's worth noting that these glands are found in greater density on the cannabis flowers, and in smaller numbers on the leaves, stems, and other aerial parts. It should also be noted that a female cannabis plant produces significantly more cannabinoids than a male one.

Let's now turn our attention to cannabinoid biosynthesis (their production process). This process begins in the cuticle (the outer layer that covers and protects the aerial parts of plants). Then, the cannabinoids are formed in specialized discoid cells (shaped like a disc). Finally, they are released from the secretory cavity onto the plant's surface as a viscous resin.

To be more explicit, let's describe the process point by point.

1. Initially, we have hexanoic acid, a fatty acid.
2. Enzymes play a role in facilitating a chemical reaction, which leads to the formation of phenolic precursors.
3. These phenolic precursors are in turn transformed into oleic acid and geranyl pyrophosphate.
4. These two molecules (oleic acid and geranyl pyrophosphate) are fused by another enzymatic reaction to produce CBGA, also known as the "mother cannabinoid".
5. The parent molecule, in association with three other enzymes, creates all other cannabinoids.
6. The enzymes THCA synthase, CBDA synthase and CBCA synthase convert CBGA into THCA, CBDA and CDCA, respectively.
7. After decarboxylation, THCA becomes THC, CBDA becomes CBD, and CDCA becomes CDC. The same applies to other molecules not mentioned here.

The image below perfectly summarizes the process described above.