// Definition
Sulfur-containing aromatic compounds found at trace levels in cannabis that contribute to the characteristic 'gassy,' 'skunky,' and pungent aromas. These prenylated sulfides are present at concentrations orders of magnitude lower than terpenes but are detectable due to extreme human olfactory sensitivity.
// From the Episode
Dr. Mark Scialdone discussed how researchers at Abstracts Labs identified these sulfur compounds as responsible for the gas/skunk character, noting they incorporate an isoprene unit. Bubbleman separately researched that actual skunk spray contains three primary thiols including E-2-butene-1-thiol. Adam Ill connected the sulfur compounds to vitamin D metabolic pathways and psychedelic effects, calling Sweet Skunk 'maybe the most psychedelic' profile. Dr. Mark noted these same thiol compounds are used as odorants in natural gas because of their extreme detectability.