Xenotransplantation biotech eGenesis has secured $191 million in Series D financing, led by Lux Capital, to advance its lead program, EGEN-2784, which focuses on developing genetically edited pig kidneys for human transplantation. The funding will enable the company to move its lead product candidate into first-in-human clinical trials, expand its production capabilities, and further its pipeline programs focused on other organs.
Addressing the Organ Shortage Crisis
Kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease, affects over 800,000 individuals in the U.S. alone, with millions more globally suffering from the condition. Kidney transplantation is widely considered the most effective treatment option, yet the demand for organs far exceeds the available supply. More than 90,000 people are currently on the kidney waitlist in the U.S., while only about 25,000 transplants are performed each year, highlighting the critical need for alternative solutions.
eGenesis's Xenotransplantation Approach
Xenotransplantation, the transplantation of living organs, tissues, or cells from one species to another, offers a potential solution. Pigs have been identified as a suitable species for xenotransplantation due to similarities in organ structure and physiology to humans, as well as their abundance. However, the potential risk of virus transmission and organ rejection due to immune system incompatibilities have historically limited progress in the field.
eGenesis is tackling these challenges by developing human-compatible donor organs using a genome engineering approach, aiming to provide a safer and more effective source of transplantable organs. The company's technology incorporates genetic modifications to reduce the risk of organ rejection and prevent viral transmission from donor animals.
EGEN-2784: A Genetically Modified Porcine Kidney
In March 2024, eGenesis achieved a significant milestone with the world’s first successful transplant of a genetically modified porcine kidney in a living human patient at Massachusetts General Hospital. The transplanted kidney, known as EGEN-2784, includes three key classes of genetic edits:
- Knockout of three genes involved in the synthesis of glycan antigens implicated in hyperacute rejection.
- Insertion of seven human transgenes involved in the regulation of pathways that modulate rejection: inflammation, innate immunity, coagulation, and complement.
- Inactivation of endogenous retroviruses within the porcine genome.
These modifications are designed to make the organ more suitable for human transplantation and reduce the likelihood of rejection. Without these edits, porcine organs would face immediate rejection by human recipients.
Investor Confidence and Future Plans
The latest funding round was led by Lux Capital with participation from ARCH Ventures, Khosla Ventures, Farallon Capital Management, and Alta Partners, with new investors such as DaVita, Eisai Innovation, and NATCO Pharmaceuticals also joining the round.
"This financing demonstrates the confidence that investors have in cross-species transplantation as a potential solution to the global organ crisis and in eGenesis as the leader in this sector," said Mike Curtis, president and CEO, eGenesis. "With this support, we are one step closer to bringing a solution to help patients suffering from organ failure."
