Mapping Cannabis Diversity with the Pangenome – Todd Michael, PhD

Dr. Todd Michael is a leading researcher specializing in genome sequencing and analysis, currently serving as a Research Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and an Adjunct Professor at the University of California, San Diego.  His research has made significant contributions to understanding plant genome architecture, particularly through the study of unique and specialized plants that offer insights into adaptive strategies. His innovative work on pangenome tools and long-read sequencing technologies has advanced the understanding of how plant genomes are organized and how they adapt to specific environmental conditions.

At CannMed 25, Todd presented “Cannabis Pangenome Exposes Minor Cannabinoid Pathway Potential”, which described how his team integrated 193 cannabis genomes to identify extensive genetic and structural diversity and highlight potential breeding bottlenecks.

During our conversation, we discussed:

• What is a pangenome and why has it replaced single reference genomes


• Why cannabis is the most interesting plant genome Todd has worked with


• What has caused cannabis to be one of the world’s most diverse plants


• How transposable elements AKA “jumping genes” contribute to cannabinoid synthase


• The potential risks of excluding males plants from breeding


• and more

Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients

Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries. 

Learn more at AdvancedNutrients.com

Additional Resources

• Michael Lab Website


• CannMed Video Archive


• CannMed 25 Photo Gallery