Disclosed herein are methods that may be used for the synthesis of benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs) such as alkaloid morphinan. The methods disclosed can be used to produce thebaine, oripavine, codeine, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, naltrexone, naloxone, hydroxycodeinone, neopinone, and / or buprenorphine. Compositions and organisms useful for the synthesis of BIAs, including thebaine synthesis polypeptides, purine permeases, and polynucleotides encoding the same, are provided.