Project Summary
The medical benefits of Cannabis for treatment of spasticity associated with Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease, as well as severe epilepsy, is well documented. The aim of this project is to identify unique genetic sequences, or DNA barcodes, that will help identify these medically important Cannabis strains. These medical benefits primarily come from the Cannabis compounds known as cannabinoids. Mammals also produce related cannabinoid compounds, known as endocannabinoids. Studying the plant genes involved in cannabinoid production will help us better understand how endocannabinoids are produced in mammals.