Biocentis leverages a proprietary genome-engineering platform to create insects that carry fertility-reducing genetic traits, lowering target pest populations when they mate with wild counterparts. The company complements its wet-lab work with AI models that simulate real-world ecological performance, helping predict and mitigate emerging insect-borne threats. Its initial programs focus on the Aedes aegypti mosquito, a vector for dengue, Zika, yellow fever and chikungunya, and on Drosophila suzukii, a fruit fly that endangers global fruit production. Future plans include moving these first solutions into field trials across the Americas and expanding the platform to additional harmful species. Biocentis positions its approach as an environmentally sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides, which face rising resistance and collateral ecological damage. The company has raised $19 million to date, comprising $13 million in seed equity and a $6 million non-dilutive award from Wellcome, providing the capital needed for upcoming trials and further R&D.

Total raised

$19M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Seed

Latest activity

Nov 2025