Beyond IVF: A new era in reproductive science - Announcing Pangaea’s Investment in Dioseve

Reproductive biology is emerging as an important frontier in hard tech, with the potential to reshape how fertility care is delivered. Dioseve is building at that intersection, and Pangaea Ventures is pleased to support that work through a new investment in the company, our first startup investment in Japan where we have been laying the groundwork to support more hard tech founders in the country.

This investment reflects a broader conviction that some of the most important opportunities in hard tech biology will come from companies that can translate deep scientific advances into practical tools for patients and clinicians.

The need is clear. Global fertility treatments already exceed $36 billion and continue to grow, yet IVF success rates remain relatively low, and existing in vitro maturation approaches are still constrained by inconsistent efficacy and patient burden. For many patients, that means multiple cycles, intensive hormone protocols, repeated clinic visits, and significant side effects.

Dioseve is developing a new approach to fertility treatment grounded in stem cell biology and reproductive medicine. Its first in vitro maturation (IVM) product, DIOS-101, uses engineered granulosa‑like cells derived from iPS cells to create an ovarian‑like microenvironment in vitro, supporting the maturation of immature oocytes during IVF. 

That matters because improving how immature oocytes are matured could make fertility treatment less physically demanding and more efficient. Dioseve’s approach is designed to reduce hormone exposure, lower the number of clinic visits, and improve the overall treatment experience, while also offering clinics a way to deliver care more effectively in a competitive market.

The scientific foundation behind the company is exceptionally robust. Research co‑authored by Dioseve founder Dr. Nobuhiko Hamazaki helped establish key methods for generating oocyte‑like cells from pluripotent stem cells and for reconstituting major parts of the female germline cycle in vitro, providing an important basis for the company’s platform.

We are excited to welcome Dioseve CEO Kazuma Kishida and the entire team to the Pangaea portfolio.