A carbon nanodot technology, initially developed for healthcare applications, is now being adapted for agricultural use to support the development of RNA-based biopesticides. The technology was created by CDotBio, a biotechnology spin-out from the University of Bristol in the UK, and has received the £25,000 Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize for its potential impact in materials science and agriculture.
© CDotBio
Carbon nanodots are small, biodegradable particles that can enable targeted delivery of RNA in plants. While previously applied in biomedical contexts, the nanodots are now being used to address limitations in RNA-based biopesticides, including issues with stability, delivery, and uptake. According to CDotBio, the nanodots help protect RNA from rapid degradation and improve delivery to intended targets, increasing the precision of pest control measures.
RNA-based biopesticides offer the advantage of targeting specific species and degrading naturally in the environment, potentially reducing harm to non-target organisms and soil health. CDotBio's nanodots are produced from renewable materials and designed for scalability, allowing for broader agricultural use. The company's initial focus is on blackgrass, a weed resistant to conventional herbicides and associated with significant losses in UK wheat farming. Further applications include wheat rust, downy mildew, and various insect pests.
The company's approach involves partnerships with agribusinesses and crop protection firms, using a licensing and co-development model supported by two patents. Preliminary projections suggest that nanodot-enabled RNA sprays could reduce synthetic pesticide usage by up to 70% in specific applications. Field trials are planned to begin in 2026, with commercial release targeted for 2028, pending regulatory approval.
© CDotBio
CDotBio was founded by researchers from the University of Bristol's School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences. The founding team includes experts in nanomaterials, plant genetics, and synthetic biology. The recent funding will be used for further validation studies and preparation for field testing. The company is currently seeking collaborative opportunities with stakeholders in agriculture and biotechnology across North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
© CDotBioFor more information:
CDotBio
Tel: +44 (0) 7768 568960
Email: [email protected]
www.cdotbio.co.uk
