A team of scientists led by a Japanese pharmaceutical startup is preparing to launch clinical trials in September for what is believed to be the world’s first treatment capable of regrowing teeth.
Toregem Biopharma, an Osaka-based company, has successfully regenerated teeth in mice, ferrets, and dogs using a drug that targets a molecule known to inhibit tooth growth. The upcoming human trials mark a significant advance in regenerative medicine.
The drug works by stimulating the body’s natural tooth-generating process. By inhibiting the USAG-1 molecule, which restricts tooth growth, the drug enables tooth buds to develop into fully formed teeth. This innovative approach could offer a much-needed alternative to current dental treatments like dentures and implants.
Founded in 2020 and funded by Kyoto University, Toregem Biopharma plans to conduct clinical trials on adults with a rare genetic condition called anodontia, which prevents tooth development. If successful, the company envisions the drug being available for public use by around 2030.
The prospect of regrowing teeth has generated significant excitement within the scientific community and the general public. If proven effective and safe, this treatment could drastically change how we approach dental care, potentially eliminating the need for artificial tooth replacements.
“This is a truly innovative approach to dental care,” said Dr. Katsu Takahashi, co-founder of Toregem Biopharma and head of dentistry and oral surgery at Kitano Hospital in Osaka. “Our hope is that this treatment will provide a natural and effective solution for those who have lost teeth, ultimately improving their quality of life.”
While it may be some time before this treatment is widely accessible, the upcoming clinical trials are a crucial step forward in the quest for tooth regeneration. The drug’s safety and effectiveness in humans require thorough evaluation, and the long-term impacts of tooth regeneration are yet to be determined. The world will be keenly observing the outcomes of these trials, which could herald a transformative era in dental care.
