Driving Cannabis Innovation: U of G Releases Advanced Tetraploid and Triploid Cannabis Varieties
The University of Guelph has announced the public release of a groundbreaking set of high-THC, high-terpene tetraploid and triploid cannabis varieties, developed by leading cannabis researcher Dr. Max Jones.
The release of these new varieties marks a significant milestone in cannabis breeding. Not only can the tetraploid lines be crossed with diploids to make new elite seedless varieties, but their very high cannabinoid and terpene content, along with their yield potential, make them desirable for commercial cultivation in their own right. The offered triploid varieties, derived from the stable tetraploid foundation, significantly reduce or eliminate seed production, enhancing flower quality and consistency even under challenging production conditions where it is difficult or impossible to control pollination from outside sources. Dr. Jones and his team have focused on stabilizing high THC, high terpene tetraploid lines to ensure both consistency and superior agronomic traits.
"Our research has led to the development of stable tetraploid cannabis plants with the elite performance traits expected by todays breeders, growers and consumers. Stable tetraploids are the key ingredient to breeding seedless triploid cannabis genetics long sought by legal producers for their ability to prevent seed set and associated cost and quality issues. While triploid genetics have started to enter the market, their availability and quality have been severely restricted by large private companies interested in controlling the development of and access to this exciting new technology. By making these tetraploid genetics widely accessible, we hope to drive rapid advancements in the cannabis industry," said Dr. Jones.
To facilitate industry adoption, the University of Guelph is offering multiple licensing structures tailored to different segments of the cannabis industry.
"We recognize the diverse needs of breeders, producers and researchers, and so we’re offering simple and reasonably priced license solutions tailored specifically for each group. With this approach, we hope to encourage widespread adoption by industry" explained Steve Dinka, the Technology Transfer Manager leading the licensing activities. "Non-exclusive breeding licenses are available for companies looking to explore tetraploid and triploid seedless cannabis breeding, while the semi-exclusive production license allows select growers to produce and market the exceptionally high-quality flower and derivatives. By providing upfront pricing and license terms, we hope to make the genetic acquisition straightforward and cost effective for innovative cannabis companies that want to participate in this exciting future"
In a move to further support Canadian cannabis producers, the University has introduced a reduced licensing fee structure for domestic companies. "Canada has been a leader in cannabis innovation, and we want to ensure that local producers have a competitive edge by providing cost-effective access to these genetics," added Dinka.
The release of these high-THC, high-terpene tetraploid and triploid cannabis varieties represents a major leap forward for the industry, opening new possibilities for breeders, cultivators, and researchers alike. By making stable, elite polyploid genetics widely available, the University of Guelph is fostering innovation and setting the stage for the next generation of premium cannabis products.
For more information on this licensing opportunity interested parties can check out the detailed licensing offer or contact the University of Guelph’s technology transfer office at germplasm@uoguelph.ca.