Introduction
Osaka: Japanese scientists have developed a drug that can regrow human teeth.
Research Overview
Katsuhiko Takahashi from Kitano Hospital in Osaka and Kyoto University stated that scientists aimed to help individuals whose teeth are falling out or have already fallen out.
The Discovery
This breakthrough emerged after years of examining an antibody called Uterine Sensitization-Associated Gene-1 (USAG-1), which was observed to inhibit tooth growth in mice and ferrets. In 2021, scientists from Kyoto discovered a monoclonal antibody that disrupted the interaction between USAG-1 and molecules called bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP).
Scientific Insights
The co-author of the research, Katsuhiko Takahashi, mentioned in a press release that scientists knew suppressing USAG-1 was beneficial for tooth growth. However, it was uncertain whether this alone would be sufficient.
Ferrets, being diphyodont animals, have a dental arrangement similar to humans. Scientists need to determine the extent of this similarity as human trials are set to begin in September this year.
Human Trials
This research, which will continue for 11 months, will involve 30 men aged between 30 and 64 who have at least one missing tooth.
Conclusion
It is noteworthy that the drug showed no adverse effects in animal studies.