News to make you smile
Scientists are trialling a drug that may be able to grow, or regrow, human teeth.
Are you among the millions of people who have suffered from tooth loss, also known as edentulism?
If so, you're probably aware that unlike bones, which can mend and regrow, once your adult teeth fall out, they are gone forever.
However, Japanese researchers are on the verge of a dental “miracle” and have begun trials of an experimental drug that promises to regrow human teeth.
This groundbreaking development could lead to a permanent cure for tooth loss.
Scientists have been studying a protein called uterine sensitisation-associated gene-1 (USAG-1), which is known to inhibit, or stop, the growth of teeth.
The breakthrough involves an antibody that can disrupt the interaction of USAG-1 with molecules crucial for tooth growth, effectively “turning off” the protein that prevents new teeth from forming.
Human trials of the treatment began in September 2024 following years of study and successful trials in animals including mice and ferrets. Ferrets were chosen because they have similar dental patterns to humans.
No major side effects were reported in the animal studies.
The initial human trials involve 30 men aged between 30 and 64, all of whom are missing at least one back tooth, with the drug administered intravenously so its effectiveness and safety can be monitored.
If no side effects occur in the adult group, researchers will move on to testing the drug on children aged 2-7 who have been missing at least four teeth from birth.
While initial treatments are focused on those with congenital tooth deficiency, lead researcher, Dr Katsu Takahashi, hopes the treatment will eventually be available for anyone who has lost teeth due to cavities, injuries, or other reasons.
Dr Takahashi, who is the head of dentistry and oral surgery at Kitano Hospital, said, “We want to do something to help those who are suffering from tooth loss or absence.
“While there has been no treatment to date providing a permanent cure, we feel that people’s expectations for tooth growth are high.”
The aim is to make the medicine available to the public by 2030.
Related reading: Popular Mechanics, Mainichi, American Dental Association
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
