Hokkaido University-Backed Fund Invests in Metagen Therapeutics and eGenesis to Advance Next-Gen Microbiome and Xenotransplantation Therapies

Overview of Funding

15th Rock, an independent venture capital firm focused on the theme of 'Human Augmentation,' has announced new investments in Metagen Therapeutics, Inc. and eGenesis, Inc. The funding was provided through the Hokkaido University Green Frontier Fund 1, a fund established in collaboration with Hokkaido University.

About Metagen Therapeutics

Metagen Therapeutics is a university-originated biotech startup built on a foundation of gut microbiome research. The company is currently advancing the practical application of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT)—the process of transferring healthy gut bacteria to patients—targeting conditions such as ulcerative colitis, gastrointestinal cancer, and Parkinson's disease. In May 2026, the company launched the first clinical trials in both Japan and the U.S. for an FMT-based drug derived from Japanese gut microbiota. They have built an integrated system covering everything from donor recruitment to the manufacturing of investigational products.

About eGenesis

EGenesis is a biotechnology company dedicated to solving the global organ shortage crisis through xenotransplantation. Utilizing its proprietary 'EGEN' platform, the company employs multiplex CRISPR technology to engineer pig genomes, creating human-compatible organs with minimized risks of viral infection and rejection. In Japan, Hokkaido University Hospital is among the institutions aiming to initiate clinical trials for kidney transplants using eGenesis's gene-edited donor pigs, with a target launch set for 2028.

Investment Background

The fund identifies four key areas of focus: Agri-Food Tech, Clean Tech, Semiconductors, and Human Augmentation. The name 'Hokkaido University Green Frontier Fund' reflects the goal of merging Hokkaido’s natural capital with the university's frontier spirit to foster sustainable industries. The decision to invest in these two companies reflects high confidence in their technological prowess, the maturity of their clinical development, and their significant global growth potential, with the ultimate goal of accelerating the societal implementation of next-generation medical solutions.