Our goal is to create DNA markers (signposts in the genome) that are predictive of a phenotype. For example, one variation of a gene may make the plant flower in 45 days, while another version may make the plant flower in 90 days. We create a test to predict the flowering time based upon the DNA sequence of that gene.
YES!! We are always looking for breeders interested in using genomic information to increase the efficiency of breeding. If we can trace gene(s) through the development process we can simplify the breeding program and reduce the number of plants required. To find a double homozygous plant for two genes, only 6% of the progeny (.25 x .25) would have the correct combination. We can test seedlings and identify those 6%.
I’ve commented a few times on consulting a lawyer. I know that makes us all cringe since legal fees can be tough costs to justify. But to build any case for licensing/trademarking a strain you will need legal advice on how to compile your documentation and case. We are continuing to research this topic with legal assets we have established relationships with and once more clarity presents itself we can provide some guidelines. Lots of uncertainty due to the federal legal environment at this point, so this topic will continue to evolve.
Do you find that the breeders you work with generally have a solid understanding of genetics? How well do their breeding plans and methods match up with the genetic testing outcomes?
We have encountered some interesting strains, but I think the most interesting info will come form crossing new strains. Any genetic background which is “unique” and/or adapted to a certain environment is especially interesting. Landraces have potential, but are likely highly heterozygous due to outbreeding, yet those strains will have new alleles of genes, which is a breeders toolbox
We have a recent publication on Cannabis genomics in collaboration with UC-Boulder.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN PLANT SCIENCES
2016, VOL. 35, NOS. 5–6, 349–363 http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07352689.2016.1265363
Genomic and Chemical Diversity in Cannabis
Ryan C. Lyncha,e, Daniela Vergaraa, Silas Tittesa, Kristin Whitea, C. J. Schwartzb, Matthew J. Gibbsb,
Travis C. Ruthenburgc,d, Kymron deCesarec, Donald P. Landc, and Nolan C. Kane
Hi Nick, we are working with a few breeders who understand the concept on leveraging DNA data to guide their breeding efforts. Without the science background, the understanding is at a high level. Mainly breeders expertise is in identifying phenotypes; by adding genotype data to that expertise allows that breeder to select the desirable offspring when they are seedlings, versus fully mature plants. We see marrying genotype, chemotype, phenotype, and user experience data as the end goal, to get a complete picture.
Your second question is difficult to say, depends on the breeder. We are in the earlier stages of breeding programs that last 2 years, so we continue to learn and build on those learnings.
A second worthy paper is by George Weiblen’s group at the University of Minnesota. We collaborate with his group.
(Gene duplication and divergence affecting drug content in Cannabis sativa
George D. Weiblen,
Jonathan P. Wenger,
Kathleen J. Craft,
Mahmoud A. ElSohly,
Zlatko Mehmedic,
Erin L. Treiber,
M. David Marks
New Phytologist
Thanks @Marigene and @CJ_Schwartz for taking the time to answer all our questions! And thank you to everyone who jumped in and asked questions. That’s it for today and we’ll let you know when the next AMA event is scheduled.
