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We have a great episode for you today featuring Medicinal Genomics Chief Scientific Officer Kevin McKernan. Kevin is a legend in the genomic sequencing space going back to his days working on the human genome project. He has applied his experience and knowledge to trying to better understand the cannabis genome, which as he mentions in the episode is one of the hardest genomes to figure out. So much so that many of the top names in genetic sequencing have collaborated to try and solve the problem.
If you aren’t familiar with sequencing terminology you may not understand all of the information Kevin drops, and it’s a lot, but safe to say his efforts and those of his collaborators will benefit everyone in the community. With a solid understanding of the cannabis genome, cannabis and hemp breeders can create plants that can better produce the compounds needed to treat patients in need.
In time, they may also find markers for better yield and pathogen resistance that can drive down the cost of cannabis so it is more accessible.
This is just another example of how cannabis scientists, clinicians and cultivators can all learn from one another at CannMed 2020. If you would like to join us at Pasadena this September, now is a great time to get your ticket!
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Links to learn more about Kevin and his genetic sequencing work:
- Kevin’s CannMed Presentations: 2019 | 2018 | 2017
- Sequence and annotation of 42 cannabis genomes reveals extensive copy number variation in cannabinoid synthesis and pathogen resistance genes
- Cryptofunded Cannabis Genomes
- Kannapedia.net
- StrainSEEK Strain Identification and Registration Service
- Medicinal Genomics’ Cannabis Genetics YouTube Playlist