Carboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes for plant growth regulation and stress tolerance
A nanotechnology-based seed treatment using carboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes to resolve seed dormancy, improve germination rates above 90%, and induce broad-spectrum abiotic stress tolerance in boreal forest and crop species by remodeling cell membrane lipidome.
Overview
This solution uses carboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes as a plant growth regulator to address key challenges in agriculture and forestry. The technology targets seed dormancy, low germination rates, and abiotic stress vulnerability in boreal forest species and crop plants. By remodeling the cell membrane lipidome, the treatment enhances seedling vigor and supports propagation under varying climate conditions. Applications include crop cultivation, forest reclamation, and establishment of stress-tolerant propagules for challenging environments.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Carboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes applied at concentrations of 20-40 µg/mL consistently achieve greater than 90% germination rates compared to 60% or less in untreated controls
- Effective across multiple upland and peatland boreal forest species with varying levels of seed dormancy
- Can be combined with stratification, gibberellic acid, and scarification treatments to resolve different types of seed dormancy
- Induces broad-spectrum abiotic stress tolerance in emerged seedlings, measured by significant increases in seedling vigor index
- Mechanism of action involves significant alterations in the seedling membrane lipidome, correlating with both improved germination and enhanced stress tolerance
- Delivery systems under further validation include chemical and nanopriming approaches, including combinations with hexanoic acids
Technology readiness level
The technology has been validated through laboratory studies demonstrating successful dormancy resolution and stress tolerance induction in four boreal forest species. Future validation will involve controlled environment testing in growth chambers and greenhouses over a period of six months to one year, targeting select boreal forest and crop species. The research team is seeking partnerships for funding, germination testing equipment, personnel support, and assistance with translation and adoption of results.
About Western University
Western University is a comprehensive public research university in London, Ontario, with a full spectrum of professional and research programs and a strong culture of partnership with industry. Companies engage through co-located labs and shared core facilities, a research and technology park with industry tenancy, and advanced prototyping testbeds that enable scale-up. Integration with major hospital systems and affiliated research institutes supports clinical translation and trials, while co-op and internship pathways provide reliable talent pipelines. Research is backed by competitive funding from NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and a dedicated technology transfer office offers IP strategy, licensing, and startup support.
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