Optimizing cannabis cultivation: an efficient in vitro system for flowering induction.

Area of Science:

• Plant Biotechnology
• Horticultural Science
• Medicinal Plant Research

Background:

• Cannabis sativa L. is a medicinal plant with valuable secondary metabolites, but breeding is complicated by its dioecious nature and environmental control needs.
• Traditional cannabis breeding faces challenges including regulatory hurdles, photoperiod control, and pollen dispersal.
• Developing efficient methods for cannabis cultivation and breeding is crucial for unlocking its full therapeutic and industrial potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an in vitro flowering protocol for Cannabis sativa L.
• To identify optimal conditions for in vitro flower and seed production.
• To explore the potential for sterile cannabinoid production and advanced breeding techniques.

Main Methods:

• Cultivation of Cannabis sativa L. plantlets in tissue culture under controlled conditions.
• Optimization of growth media (DKW with 2% sucrose) and environmental factors like light intensity.
• Induction of flowering and seed set in vitro, followed by analysis of anther traits.

Main Results:

• The complete life cycle of cannabis, including flowering and viable seed production, was achieved in vitro.
• DKW medium with 2% sucrose and low light intensity in filtered vessels optimized in vitro flower production.
• In vitro anthers exhibited a non-dehiscent trait, preventing cross-contamination and facilitating multiple crosses.

Conclusions:

• An effective protocol for in vitro flowering and seed production in cannabis was developed, offering a platform for sterile cannabinoid production.
• This system provides precise control over growth conditions, enabling year-round production and overcoming traditional breeding challenges.
• The in vitro system serves as a valuable tool for studying cannabis flowering and advancing breeding strategies in a small facility.