 |
|
Weeding out marijuana: Researchers close in on engineering recognizable, drug-free Cannabis plant
September 16, 2009U of Minnesota researchers identify genes producing THC
In a first step toward engineering a drug-free Cannabis plant for hemp fiber and oil, University of Minnesota researchers have identified genes producing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive substance in marijuana. Studying the genes could also lead to new and better drugs for pain, nausea and other conditions.
The finding is published in the September issue of the Journal of Experimental Botany. Lead author is David Marks, a professor of plant biology in the College of Biological Sciences.
The study revealed that the genes are active in tiny hairs covering the flowers of Cannabis plants. In marijuana, the hairs accumulate high amounts of THC, whereas in hemp the hairs have little. Hemp and marijuana are difficult to distinguish apart from differences in THC.
With the genes identified, finding a way to silence them-and thus produce a drug-free plant - comes a step closer to reality. Another desirable step is to make drug-free plants visually recognizable. Since the hairs can be seen with a magnifying glass, this could be accomplished by engineering a hairless Cannabis plant.
The researchers are currently using the methods of the latest study to identify genes that lead to hair growth in hopes of silencing them.
"We are beginning to understand which genes control hair growth in other plants, and the resources created in our study will allow us to look for similar genes in Cannabis sativa," said Marks.
"Cannabis genetics can contribute to better agriculture, medicine, and drug enforcement," said George Weiblen, an associate professor of plant biology and a co-author of the study.
As with Dobermans and Dachshunds, marijuana and hemp are different breeds of the same species (Cannabis sativa), but marijuana contains much more THC than hemp, which is a source of industrial fiber and nutritious oil.
Hemp was raised for its fiber - which is similar to cotton but more durable - in the United States until legislation outlawed all Cannabis plants because they contain THC. Today, marijuana contains as much as 25 percent THC, whereas hemp plants contain less than 0.3 percent.
Hemp was once a popular crop in the upper Midwest because it tolerates a cool climate and marginal soils that won't support other crops but, after drug legislation, hemp fiber was replaced by plastic and other alternatives. Recent popular demand for hemp products has led some states to consider the economic and environmental benefits of hemp. North Dakota legislation aims to reintroduce it as a crop, and Minnesota is considering similar legislation. At the same time, California and other states permit the medicinal use of marijuana.
"I can't think of a plant so regarded as a menace by some and a miracle by others," says Weiblen, who is one of the few researchers in the United States permitted to study Cannabis genetics. In 2006, Weiblen and colleagues developed a DNA "fingerprinting" technique capable of distinguishing among Cannabis plants in criminal investigations.
University of Minnesota
The study revealed that the genes are active in tiny hairs covering the flowers of Cannabis plants. In marijuana, the hairs accumulate high amounts of THC, whereas in hemp the hairs have little. Hemp and marijuana are difficult to distinguish apart from differences in THC.
With the genes identified, finding a way to silence them-and thus produce a drug-free plant - comes a step closer to reality. Another desirable step is to make drug-free plants visually recognizable. Since the hairs can be seen with a magnifying glass, this could be accomplished by engineering a hairless Cannabis plant.
The researchers are currently using the methods of the latest study to identify genes that lead to hair growth in hopes of silencing them.
"We are beginning to understand which genes control hair growth in other plants, and the resources created in our study will allow us to look for similar genes in Cannabis sativa," said Marks.
"Cannabis genetics can contribute to better agriculture, medicine, and drug enforcement," said George Weiblen, an associate professor of plant biology and a co-author of the study.
As with Dobermans and Dachshunds, marijuana and hemp are different breeds of the same species (Cannabis sativa), but marijuana contains much more THC than hemp, which is a source of industrial fiber and nutritious oil.
Hemp was raised for its fiber - which is similar to cotton but more durable - in the United States until legislation outlawed all Cannabis plants because they contain THC. Today, marijuana contains as much as 25 percent THC, whereas hemp plants contain less than 0.3 percent.
Hemp was once a popular crop in the upper Midwest because it tolerates a cool climate and marginal soils that won't support other crops but, after drug legislation, hemp fiber was replaced by plastic and other alternatives. Recent popular demand for hemp products has led some states to consider the economic and environmental benefits of hemp. North Dakota legislation aims to reintroduce it as a crop, and Minnesota is considering similar legislation. At the same time, California and other states permit the medicinal use of marijuana.
"I can't think of a plant so regarded as a menace by some and a miracle by others," says Weiblen, who is one of the few researchers in the United States permitted to study Cannabis genetics. In 2006, Weiblen and colleagues developed a DNA "fingerprinting" technique capable of distinguishing among Cannabis plants in criminal investigations.
University of Minnesota
Cannabis Current Events and Cannabis News RSSSmoking during pregnancy puts children at risk of psychotic symptoms
Mothers who smoke during pregnancy put their children at greater risk of developing psychotic symptoms in their teenage years.
Impact of cannabis on bones changes with age, study finds
Scientists investigating the effects of cannabis on bone health have found that its impact varies dramatically with age.
Government-backed youth program pilot didn't reduce teenage pregnancies
A government-backed youth development pilot programme in England, aimed at reducing teenage pregnancies, drunkenness or cannabis use, didn't reduce teenage pregnancies and other outcomes and might have increased pregnancies.
'Cannabis alters human DNA' -- new study
A new study published by University of Leicester researchers has found "convincing evidence" that cannabis smoke damages DNA in ways that could potentially increase the risk of cancer development in humans.
Hollow mask illusion fails to fool schizophrenia patients
Patients with schizophrenia are able to correctly see through an illusion known as the 'hollow mask' illusion, probably because their brain disconnects 'what the eyes see' from what 'the brain thinks it is seeing'.
A severe vomiting sickness with chronic cannabis abuse
This obscure clinical manifestation of severe vomiting sickness due to chronic abuse of marijuana, recognized by Dr. Sontineni and his colleagues at the Creighton University of Omaha, NE.
Study finds cannabis use, dangerous driving behaviors interrelated
Thrill-seeking young men are more likely to drive under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) and engage in reckless driving, according to a new Université de Montréal study. As reported in the journal Accident Analysis and Prevention, men who are sensation-seekers, an average age of 27 and impulsive will consider taking the wheel after consuming cannabis more often than older peers.
Heavy marijuana use may damage developing brain in teens, young adults
Adolescents and young adults who are heavy users of marijuana are more likely than non-users to have disrupted brain development, according to a new study.
Adolescent insomnia linked to depression and substance abuse during adolescence and young adulthood
A study in the Oct. 1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that adolescent insomnia symptoms are associated with depression, suicide ideation and attempts, and the use of alcohol, cannabis and other drugs such as cocaine.
New cannabis-like drugs could block pain without affecting brain, says study
A new type of drug could alleviate pain in a similar way to cannabis without affecting the brain, according to a new study published in the journal Pain on Monday 15 September.
More Cannabis Current Events and Cannabis News Articles
 |
Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical Grower's Bible by Jorge Cervantes (Author) With 512 full color pages and 1120 full color photographs and illustrations, Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical Grower's Bible is the most complete cultivation book available. The Fifth Edition of the former Indoor Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor Bible was originally published in 1983, when it immediately became a best seller. More than 500,000 copies of the Indoor Bible are in print in Dutch, English, French, German and Spanish. New greenhouse and outdoor growing chapters make this a book both indoor and outdoor growers will keep under thumb. The other 15 chapters (17 total) are all updated with the most current information, completely rewritten and significantly expanded. For example, Dr. John McPartland contributed an all new medical section - The books... |
 |
Cannabis: A History by Martin Booth (Author) To some it's the classic "gateway drug," to others it is a harmless way to relax, or provide relief from pain. Some fear it is dangerous and addictive, while others feel it should be decriminalized. Whatever the viewpoint, cannabis incites debate at every level, and the effect it has on every corner of the globe is undeniable. In this comprehensive study, Martin Booth crafts a tale of medical advance and religious enlightenment; of political subterfuge and law enforcement; of cunning smugglers, street pushers, gang warfare, writers, artists, and musicians. And above all, Booth chronicles the fascinating process through which cannabis became outlawed throughout the Western world, and the effect such legislation has had on the global economy. |
 |
The Cannabis Grow Bible: The Definitive Guide to Growing Marijuana for Recreational and Medical Use by Greg Green (Author) This guide offers methods for growers who want to maximize the yield and potency of their crop. It explains the "Screen of Green" technique that gives a higher yield using fewer plants, an important development for American growers who, if caught, are penalized according to number of plants. The Cannabis Grow Bible is an authoritative source that features almost 200 color and black-and-white photographs, charts, and tables. With an emphasis on the day-to-day aspects of maintaining a garden and European expertise, this book ensures that growers will enjoy a successful harvest. |
 |
Fool Mother Nature Cannabis T-Shirt by Old Glory For fans of hydroponics - just get a grow light, and you're all set! This black shirt contradicts the old addage, "It's not nice to fool mother nature"... |
 |
Grow Great Marijuana: An Uncomplicated Guide to Growing the World's Finest Cannabis by Logan Edwards (Author) Grow Great Marijuana includes the simplest, quickest methods for getting your grow room started and keeping it packed with buds all year round. No complicated charts, graphs, or scientific explanations. You get all the essential information you need in one easy-to-use guide. Brimming with illustrations, advice, and photos, this easy to read guide shows you step-by-step how to create the indoor garden of your dreams. From hydroponic basics to a bountiful harvest, it's just what you need to start growing great marijuana! |
 |
Cannabis - Box of Six 20 Gram Tubes - HEM Incense by HEM |
 |
The Cannabis Cookbook: Over 35 Tasty Recipes for Meals, Munchies, and More by Tim Pilcher (Author) This innovative cookbook brings a remarkable design to the joy of cooking and baking with cannabis. Featuring stimulating recipes and lush color photography, it approaches cannabis as yet another fine ingredient to be studied and savored, like a great wine, premium cigar, gourmet chocolate, or single malt scotch. The Cannabis Cookbook divulges all you need to know to culinarily enjoy the herb that's used by over 25 million Americans. It includes the history of cannabis in cooking, biochemical properties and effects, the best "vineyards," and over 35 step-by-step recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, baked goods, and other essentials. The recipes and treats presented in this book are so delicious that nothing will get wasted. Well, almost nothing. Includes bonus section... |
 |
Cannabis Cultivation: A Complete Grower's Guide by Mel (Author) Written by commercial-scale grower Mel Thomas — nicknamed "Mr. Big" by the authorities — Cannabis Cultivation divulges the expertise, tips, and insight he learned at the helm of one of the world’s largest marijuana growing operations. Free of technical jargon and boring theory, the book’s step-by-step directions enable anyone to grow and harvest the highest quality marijuana using simple techniques and inexpensive, everyday gardening tools. All of the important factors that influence growth rate, yield, and potency are covered, including lighting, planting mediums, pH, nutrients, water systems, air, and temperature. |
 |
The Cannabis Breeder's Bible: The Definitive Guide to Marijuana Genetics, Cannabis Botany and Creating Strains for the Seed Market by Greg Green (Author) The Cannabis Breeder's Bible offers real-world, professional techniques for breeding primo pot and gives precise growing information for 60 popular marijuana varieties. The book covers new hybridization techniques, international seed law issues, protecting new breeds or strains from knockoff artists, shipping seeds and clones, breeding lab designs, product testing, primordial cannabis, landrace and lost strains, common mutations, and more. This useful guide also features a wealth of photographs, instructive illustrations, and in-depth interviews with breeders and seed bank professionals. |
 |
The Complete Illustrated Guide to Cannabis by Nick Brownlee (Author) Wonder drug or social menace? The perennial question may never be answered, as factions on both sides hold fast to their beliefs. Doctors and scientists hail its medicinal merits while politicians and others insist that cannabis, in any form, is the first step down the slippery slope to serious drug addiction. This book explores all views to form an honest contemporary picture. Dozens of photographs are included. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |