Wageningen Scientists ‘Resurrect’ Ancient Cannabis Enzymes with Medical Promise

Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260115022805.htm

Overview

Researchers at Wageningen University reconstructed extinct cannabinoid-producing enzymes that were active millions of years ago. These ancestral enzymes are ‘generalists’—capable of producing THC, CBD, and CBC simultaneously, unlike modern specialized enzymes. They’re more robust and easier to produce in microorganisms like yeast, opening the door to efficient biotechnological cannabinoid production. One enzyme is especially good at making CBC, a cannabinoid with anti-inflammatory properties that no existing plant produces in high quantities.

Clinical Perspective

🔹 ANCIENT ENZYMES, MODERN MEDICINE

Scientists at Wageningen University just rewrote cannabinoid history—literally.

🔹 Reconstructed enzymes from MILLIONS of years ago

💊 Ancient versions made THC, CBD & CBC simultaneously

🔹 Modern enzymes only make one compound each

🔹 Ancestral enzymes are easier to produce in yeast

🔹 One enzyme specifically excels at making CBC

🌿 No existing cannabis plant makes high CBC naturally

‘These ancestral enzymes are more robust and flexible than their descendants.’ —WUR researcher

The future of cannabinoid medicine may come from the ancient past.