This three year project aims to develop the optimal media formulations and transformation process to generate the highest value cannabis plants in the market. We have examined the response of different cannabis genotypes to tissue culture media formations to develop tissue culture media formulations tailored for cannabis genotypes. We will be evaluating upon flowering of the rooted clones of the selected tissue culture plants, flowers should have equal to or better yield and potency than traditional clone production and cultivation of cannabis plants.

Another goal of this project is to develop a genetic transformation procedure for cannabis from callus and/orprotoplast regeneration optimization. This protocol will be used to increase pathogen resistance and improve quality traits like yield in cannabis plants.

Abstract: First, the project will focus on the genetic structure of a subset of Klonetics extensive germplasm collection by conducting a large Genotyping-bySequencing (GBS) experiment and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data analyses. Secondly, the project will perform phenotypic analyses at the CLS (Canadian Light Source) to quantify important biochemical and agronomic traits associated with trichome and seed formation. 

Description: Due to longstanding restrictions, our basic knowledge of Cannabis is far behind that of other crops (Clarke and Merlin 2017). Hence, many of the claims made by industry regarding the various applications of Cannabis require advanced molecular, pharmaceutical and agronomic research, all of which require an in-depth understanding of its evolutionary history, genetic structure, biochemical variability and reproductive diversity. This research proposed here provides a roadmap combining modern genomics tools to establish a solid business model for cannabis genetic improvement, to cater to future needs of medical and recreational market in Canada.

Abstract:  An integrative research project aimed at studying the pollen generated by a core set of Cannabis accessions is proposed The project will develop phenotypic analyses of pollen at the CLS whereby both surface and internal structures can be qualified and quantified. The project will focus on the identification of X and Y chromosome carrying pollen as this could be used in a sorting procedure for directed breeding of female plants. 

Description: Medicinal cannabis is a treasure trove of phytochemicals with more than 110 different cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Major phytoactive compounds of interest are delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidolic acid (CBDA) for their medicinal effects. Varying profiles of THC, CBD, and terpenes with a range of 20-30% total cannabinoids in cannabis products provide numerous opportunities for treating different diseases (medicinal applications) and various organoleptic properties in combination with THC (recreational applications). Most of the traditional cannabis breeding in North America used hybrid or varietal approach, whereas little efforts have been made to apply modern genomics tools and breeding methods for cannabis genetic improvement and innovation.