Transcriptomic insights into unisexual flower development in Cannabis sativa: conserved MADS-box networks and divergent developmental programs

Abstract Background: Cannabis sativa, a dioecious species characterized by striking sexual dimorphism and exceptional sexual plasticity, presents a powerful model for exploring floral development and the evolution of dioecy. The unique male and female flowers each feature a single perianth whorl that differs significantly in structure and developmental trajectory, raising key questions about organ identity and developmental regulation that remain largely unresolved. Results: Analysis of MADS-box gene expression reveals that, despite sexual dimorphism and structural reduction, both sexes conform to