Glandular trichomes talk

 

Glandular trichomes are specialized structures found on the surface of plants, including cannabis, that contain high concentrations of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids. These compounds play an important role in protecting the plant from herbivores and pathogens, as well as attracting beneficial insects and animals. Glandular trichomes also play a role in the plant's defense mechanism and chemical communication.

The presence of glandular trichomes can help the plant in several ways. For example, the compounds produced by glandular trichomes can act as a natural pesticide, repelling insects and other herbivores that would otherwise feed on the plant. Additionally, terpenes and flavonoids, which are commonly found in glandular trichomes, can also help the plant to defend itself against pathogens and disease.

Glandular trichomes also play a role in chemical communication. They can release volatile organic compounds that can act as signals to other plants, animals and insects in the ecosystem. This can help the plant to attract beneficial insects, like pollinators, that can help to improve the plant's reproductive success.

The production of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids also has value for medical and industrial use. Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD are widely used for medical purposes, whereas terpenes and flavonoids have medicinal properties as well and have great economic value.

Overall, glandular trichomes play an important role in the growth and development of the cannabis plant, providing it with protection and chemical communication, as well as having economic value.

 

References:

  1. K. Gaffal, E.W. Weiler, "Trichomes of higher plants: diversity, development, and secretory functions", Plant Biology, vol. 19, pp. 735-746, 2017.
  2. C. De Meijer, "Trichome development in Cannabis sativa L.", Ph.D. thesis, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands, 2003.
  3. B.A. Kjøller, J. Gershenzon, "Terpenoids as herbivore-induced plant volatiles: an introduction", Phytochemistry, vol. 70, pp. 1215-1220, 2009
  4. S.P. Singh, V.G. Mahalaxmi, R.P. Singh, "Flavonoids: an overview", Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, vol. 49, pp. 1121-1130, 2011
  5. C.J. Cullum, "The trichome of Cannabis sativa L.", Ph.D. thesis, University of London, London, UK, 1985
  6. J. Bednarczyk, M. Zadernowski, "Trichomes of Cannabis sativa and their importance", Journal of Essential Oil Research, vol. 15, pp. 273-279, 2003
  7. L.A. Barfuss, J. Miesch, "Trichome types of Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabaceae) and their secretory cells", Flora, vol. 200, pp. 191-204, 2005
  8. M.J. Van der Kooy, G.W. Versteegh, "The role of glandular trichomes in plant-insect interactions", Advances in Botanical Research, vol. 22, pp. 1-48, 1995
  9. P.T. Anstey, "Trichomes and their glandular secretions in the genus Cannabis (Cannabaceae)", Journal of Natural
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