Forget implants! New drug can regrow human teeth naturally, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw shares a video of how medicine works

A new drug could potentially regrow human teeth, offering an alternative to dental implants. As per a video shared by Biocon Executive Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, researchers at Toregem Biopharma have developed a drug targeting a protein called USAG-1, which prevents new teeth from growing. By blocking USAG-1, scientists found they could stimulate natural tooth growth in the same spot where a tooth was previously lost.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw called the newly developed drug capable of regrowing human teeth an "amazing discovery" that could make dental implants obsolete. "It will disrupt dentistry for sure!" she tweeted on Sunday, praising the innovation.

How the Drug Works

The drug, created by researchers at Japanese biotech firm Toregem Biopharma, targets a protein called USAG-1, which suppresses tooth growth. By blocking this protein, researchers found that new teeth can naturally grow in the same place as lost ones.

Successful Animal Trials

The treatment was first tested on mice, where it successfully stimulated tooth regeneration. According to Katsu Takahashi, head of oral surgery at the Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital in Osaka, most mammals, including humans, develop only two sets of teeth in their lifetime. However, dormant buds for a potential third set remain beneath the gums.

Clinical Trials Underway

In October, clinical trials began at Kyoto University Hospital, with the drug being administered to adult participants. "It's a technology completely new to the world," Takahashi said.

Potential to Replace Dental Implants

Prosthetic treatments like dental implants have been the standard for tooth loss but are often costly and invasive. "Restoring natural teeth definitely has its advantages," Takahashi emphasized, suggesting that the drug could revolutionize dental care.

Hope for Patients with Congenital Conditions

The first phase of the drug’s application focuses on patients with severe congenital conditions. Around 0.1% of people are born without six or more permanent teeth, a hereditary issue that can cause difficulties in chewing and social stigma. In Japan, many affected individuals wear face masks to conceal missing teeth. "This drug could be a game-changer for them," Takahashi stated.

Launch Expected by 2030

Researchers aim to make the drug primarily available for children and expect it to be ready for commercial use by 2030.