Klonetics R&D Project Summaries
R&D Project #1: Investigation of Cannabis Tissue Culture Medium
Project Overview:
This three-year project aims to develop the optimal media formulations and transformation process to generate the highest-value cannabis plants in the market. We have examined the response of different cannabis genotypes to tissue culture media formations to develop tissue culture media formulations tailored for cannabis genotypes. We will be evaluating upon flowering of the rooted clones of the selected tissue culture plants, flowers should have equal to or better yield and potency than traditional clone production and cultivation of cannabis plants.
Another goal of this project is to develop a genetic transformation procedure for cannabis from callus and/orprotoplast regeneration optimization. This protocol will be used to increase pathogen resistance and improve quality traits like yield in cannabis plants.
Key Objectives:
Media Optimization: Tailor tissue culture media to improve yield and potency, ensuring the flower production from rooted clones is equal to or better than traditional methods.
Genetic Transformation Procedure: Develop a process for genetic transformation from callus or protoplast regeneration to enhance pathogen resistance and improve yield and quality traits in cannabis plants.
R&D Project #2: Genome Sequencing and Phenotypic Mapping
Abstract: This project focuses on unlocking the genetic structure of Klonetics' germplasm collection using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) experiments and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data analysis. Additionally, it includes phenotypic analysis at the Canadian Light Source (CLS) to quantify biochemical and agronomic traits, particularly those related to trichomes and seed formation.
Description: Cannabis research has lagged behind other crops due to long-standing restrictions. This project addresses gaps in our understanding of cannabis' evolutionary history, genetic structure, biochemical variability, and reproductive diversity. Through modern genomics tools, the research will build a comprehensive framework for cannabis genetic improvement, tailored to meet the future needs of the medical and recreational cannabis markets in Canada.
Goals:
Genotyping: Conduct genome sequencing and SNP analysis of Klonetics' germplasm.
Phenotypic Analysis: Analyze biochemical traits and map agronomic characteristics, particularly in trichomes and seed development.
Application: Establish a solid business model for genetic improvement in cannabis to support both medicinal and recreational markets.
R&D Project #3: Development of Methods to Sort Cannabis Pollen
Abstract: This project aims to develop a method for analyzing and sorting cannabis pollen based on X and Y chromosomes, which could enhance the breeding of female plants. Phenotypic analyses of pollen, conducted at the CLS, will focus on both surface and internal structures to aid in a directed breeding process.
Description: Cannabis contains a wide array of phytochemicals, including over 110 cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. With varying levels of THC, CBD, and other compounds, cannabis products offer a range of medicinal and recreational applications. However, traditional breeding methods in North America have primarily focused on hybrid or varietal approaches. This project seeks to apply modern genomics and breeding techniques to enhance cannabis genetic improvement.
Goals:
Pollen Analysis: Perform detailed phenotypic analyses of cannabis pollen, identifying X and Y chromosome-bearing pollen.
Breeding Innovation: Develop a sorting process for pollen, enabling more precise breeding for female plants.
Genetic Improvement: Apply modern genomic tools to advance the breeding of high-value cannabis cultivars for both medicinal and recreational purposes.
These R&D projects exemplify Klonetics' commitment to advancing cannabis genetics through cutting-edge research, genomics, and tissue culture methods. Each project is strategically designed to improve the yield, quality, and resilience of cannabis plants, positioning Klonetics at the forefront of cannabis innovation.