Canadian marijuana titan Aurora Cannabis Inc. ACB  together with 22nd Century Group, Inc. will license biosynthesis intellectual property to Cronos Group Inc. CRON. The licensed intellectual property is designed to help advance the research and development of the biosynthesis of cannabinoids. (Article published by Benzinga.)

What is biosynthesis?

Biosynthesis is a process common in the pharmaceutical industry, which involves using living micro-organisms to convert simple substances into complex compounds. Through biosynthesis, cannabinoids – particularly those that are rare such as cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabinol (CBN) – are expected to be produced efficiently and reliably at high levels of purity.

"We are deeply interested in the evolution of cannabinoids, and this is a promising step toward the commercialization of cannabinoid products using biosynthesis," Miguel Martin, Aurora CEO said. "The long-term potential for rare cannabinoid molecules produced through biosynthesis is incredibly promising given their efficient production methods, and potential therapeutic benefits and utility in health, wellness, and consumer products."

"We believe that the availability of both plant-based and biosynthetic cannabinoids will be important to the commercial success of our industry, and this agreement positions 22nd Century, Aurora and Cronos Group with an important role in each approach,” James A. Mish, CEO of 22nd Century Group said in a statement. (Click here to read original article.)