Mode of Action

Technological Advantage

Oilseed Rape Cotyledon

1. Spray encapsulated RNA product on Oilseed Rape

The biopesticide formulation is conventionally applied to the crop, while the encapsulating agent prevents the RNA molecules from environmental degradation, ensuring it remains available on the plant surface for uptake by feeding insects.

2. Product Ingested by Beetle

As the CSFB emerges and feeds on the treated crop, they simultaneously ingest lethal doses of our RNA-based biopesticide, capable of withstanding the harsh gut environment within the insect.

Oilseed Rape Cotyledon with living Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle

3.  The Process prevents production of an essential protein

Once ingested and taken up into the insects’ cells, the RNA targets a specific gene essential for survival.

4.  Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle ceases feeding

With the targeted protein no longer being produced, the beetle’s ability to thrive is impaired, therefore leading to decreased feeding and ultimately mortality, thereby reducing crop damage and improving yield.

Oilseed Rape Cotyledon with deceased Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle
Trevor Grigg and Heather Sirmon at Trade Stand
The Value of RNAi based Pesticides

How RNAi works

RNA AgriBio Ltd is developing a new generation of crop protection based on a naturally occurring biological process called RNA interference (RNAi). Our technology uses Spray Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS), where a biodegradable RNA spray is applied to crops to specifically target harmful insect pests such as the Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle (CSFB) Psylliodes chrysocephela, one of the greatest threats to UK oilseed rape production.

  • Unlike conventional insecticides, RNA based sprays do not work by poisoning insects or affecting broad groups of organisms. Instead, it works with exceptional precision. The RNA molecules are designed to match only specific genetic sequences found within the target pest.

  • Importantly, this technology is not gene editing and does not alter the plant’s DNA. The crop itself is not genetically modified. The RNA acts more like a temporary biological instruction that naturally breaks down after use.

Our Team of Molecular Biologists & Regulatory specialists

Our Team

Trevor Grigg

Dr Trevor Grigg, Founder & Director

CEO. Experienced Research Project Leader. RNA biochemist, engineering biology,agricultural entomology & agronomy.

Sereene Ghariani, Researcher

Molecular biologist, Bioinformatics, Insect biofeeding assays. Gene knockdown and mortality in Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle trials

Daisy Stradling

Daisy Stradling, Researcher

Based at the John Innes Centre, Norwich. Microscopy imaging of RNA uptake into insect tissues. Glasshouse trials, insect and plant husbandry.

Heather Sirmon

Heather Sirmon, Researcher

Researcher at the University of Plymouth investigating RNAi-based biopesticides for the sustainable control of stored-grain insect pests.

Tom Pope

Prof. Tom Pope, Entomologist and CSFB expert at Harper Adams University

Current Chair of the Pests and Beneficials Working Group of the British Crop Protection Council.  A CSFB expert

Roma Gwyn

Dr Roma Gwyn of Biorationale Limited, Biopesticide market consultant

Advice on UK & International regulatory pathways. Marketing strategy. Ex Vice President of the International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association.

David Dent

Dr David Dent, Chair and Strategic Growth Adviser

CEO Dent Associates Ltd. Biopesticide and biofertiliser entrepreneur, author on innovation, former advisor on investment boards and experienced Chair

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