Scientists develop medicine for natural tooth regeneration

TOKYO: Japanese scientists have made significant progress in developing a revolutionary medicine that may enable people to grow new teeth.

The clinical trial for this medicine is set to commence in July 2024, according to a report published in the prestigious medical journal Nature.

The researchers at the Medical Research Institute Kaitano Hospital are hopeful that by 2030, this medicine will be available to all individuals who have lost their natural teeth for any reason.

The head of the research team, Katsu Takahashi, stated in an interview that they have been working on the development of this medicine since the 1990s and are highly confident in its success.

He further explained that the medicine works by suppressing a gene known as USAG-1, which inhibits tooth growth by blocking the action of certain growth factors.

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By using an antibody that targets USAG-1, the researchers were able to stimulate tooth formation in mice suffering from tooth agenesis, a congenital condition that prevents the development of some or all teeth.

The researchers also tested the effect of the antibody on human dental stem cells and found that it enhanced their ability to differentiate into tooth-like structures.

This groundbreaking research has garnered worldwide attention and has implications for millions of people who suffer from tooth loss due to decay, injury or disease.

Currently, the only options for replacing missing teeth are artificial dentures or implants, which have limitations such as cost, maintenance and compatibility.

The new medicine, if proven safe and effective, could offer a natural and permanent solution for restoring oral function and aesthetics.