Key Takeaways
- CDotBio awarded the £25,000 Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize for materials science innovation
- Carbon nanodot technology aims to improve delivery and stability of RNA-based biopesticides
- Initial agricultural targets include blackgrass, wheat rust, and aphids
- Field trials are planned for 2026, with commercial launch targeted for 2028
- The company is seeking partnerships to expand its development and commercialization efforts
CDotBio’s Funding Supports Development of RNA-Based Crop Protection Tools
CDotBio, a biotechnology company spun out from the University of Bristol, has been awarded the £25,000 Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize to advance its carbon nanodot platform for agricultural applications. Originally developed for use in healthcare and biotech, the nanodot technology is being adapted to improve the effectiveness of RNA-based biopesticides.
The funding will support further development of the platform, with planned field trials in 2026 and a commercial launch targeted for 2028, subject to regulatory approvals.
Focus on Agricultural Applications
Improving RNA Biopesticide Delivery
The core of CDotBio’s approach involves carbon nanodots—biodegradable, ultra-small particles manufactured from renewable organic materials. The company states that these nanodots can enhance the delivery, stability, and uptake of RNA when applied to plants. This may improve the performance of RNA-based biopesticides, which are designed to act on specific pests or weeds without affecting non-target organisms.
“Carbon nanodots enhance the stability and delivery of RNA, allowing biopesticides to reach pests or weeds more effectively,” said Teo Garcia-Millan, co-founder and CEO of CDotBio. “They prevent RNA from degrading too quickly, enabling more precise and reliable pest control.”
Target Crops and Pests
Early Use Cases Identified
CDotBio is initially focusing on crop protection challenges such as blackgrass—a herbicide-resistant weed affecting UK wheat production—as well as other issues including wheat rust, downy mildew, and aphids. The company reports that its platform is based on two patents related to nanodot synthesis and RNA conjugation.
Preliminary modeling suggests potential for reductions in synthetic pesticide use, although results will depend on field performance and regulatory outcomes.
Research Background and Business Model
The company was founded by researchers from the University of Bristol’s School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences. Its team includes expertise in materials chemistry, plant biology, and synthetic biology. CDotBio’s commercial approach involves co-developing products with agribusiness partners, RNA manufacturers, and crop protection companies. Revenue is expected to be generated through licensing and development agreements.
CDotBio’s Expansion and Collaboration Opportunities
CDotBio is currently seeking partnerships in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia to support product development and commercialization. With the global crop protection market continuing to evolve, the company aims to explore the use of nanodot-enabled RNA sprays as part of broader integrated pest management strategies.
