Introduction
Cannabis, a plant integral to Eurasian civilization for millennia, has recently gained renewed scientific interest due to spreading legalization. As we delve into the pharmacopeia of cannabinoids, understanding their biosynthesis becomes crucial. In this review, we explore the pathways, enzymes, and biochemistry behind these compounds, focusing on their biosynthesis and the non-enzymatic decarboxylation of cannabinoic acids.
The Biosynthesis of Cannabinoids
- Historical Context: Cannabis sativa L. (C. sativa) has been revered in Chinese, Hindu, and Egyptian texts for its ritual and medicinal properties. However, its chemical characterization history is relatively brief.
- THC and CBD: Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component, was first isolated in 1942. Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) followed soon after. THC and CBD exist primarily as their acidic parents (THCA and CBDA) in fresh biomass.
- Biosynthesis: Cannabinoids are biosynthesized as phytoprotectants. Understanding their biosynthesis is essential for engineering strains with specific cannabinoid profiles.
As science unravels the mysteries of cannabis, we gain access to potentially biomedically-relevant materials. The journey continues, and the potential applications of cannabinoids remain vast.
