Tooth loss is an undesirable event that can compromise aesthetics and fundamental functions like chewing and speaking. While dentures and dental implants are the current treatment options for the replacement of missing teeth, another fascinating solution could be just around the corner. A game-changing drug that can regrow teeth!
The endeavors of a team of Japanese scientists led by Toregem Biopharma, a Japanese pharmaceutical startup, have been fructified with the invention of a ‘tooth regeneration antibody drug’ that has demonstrated its incredible potential in animal test subjects.
The groundbreaking research is spearheaded by Katsu Takahashi, head of the dentistry and oral surgery department at the Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital in Osaka. The breakthrough moment in the research was the identification of a specific protein USAG-1(uterine sensitization associated gene-1), which can suppress teeth regrowth. This discovery led to the development of a neutralizing antibody medicine that blocks the action of USAG-1. Evidence suggests that humans have a third set of tooth buds in addition to the widely known baby and permanent sets of teeth. However, the growing potential of these tooth buds diminishes over time. The newly developed drug inhibits the function of USAG-1 protein and stimulates the growth of these tooth buds.
The idea of growing new teeth is every dentist's dream. I've been working on this since I was a graduate student. I was confident I'd be able to make it happen."
Katsu Takahashi, Head of the Dentistry and Oral Surgery, Kitano hospital, Osaka
The drug has successfully induced the growth of a new complete tooth when administered to ferrets, which is reported to have similar dental patterns as humans. The drug is on track to begin human trials in July 2024 and upon meeting the trial criteria, it will be authorised for clinical application in 2030.
While the team intends to conduct clinical trials for children with anodontia, a congenital disorder characterized by partial or complete absence of teeth, they also anticipate potential benefits for adults who have lost teeth due to caries or other pathologies .
"Missing teeth in a child can affect the development of their jaw bone. We hope the drug will serve as a key to solving those problems,” said Katsu Takahashi.
Researchers at Kitani Hospital hope that the marvel drug can be used as an alternative treatment option alongside conventional procedures such as implants and prostheses. The landmark accomplishment is a leap forward in the dynamic landscape of dentistry unlocking exciting prospects in dental care. The innovation has created a wave of enthusiasm and the future of dentistry awaits to transform the lives of countless individuals, especially those with congenital dental disorders.
Refernce:
Murashima-Suginami, A., H. Kiso, Y. Tokita, E. Mihara, Y. Nambu, R. Uozumi, Y. Tabata et al. "Anti–USAG-1 therapy for tooth regeneration through enhanced BMP signaling." Science advances 7, no. 7 (2021): eabf1798.
Ravi, V., A. Murashima-Suginami, H. Kiso, Y. Tokita, C. L. Huang, K. Bessho, J. Takagi, M. Sugai, Y. Tabata, and K. Takahashi. "Advances in tooth agenesis and tooth regeneration." Regenerative Therapy 22 (2023): 160-168.
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/09/24/japan/science-health/japan-pharma-grows-new-teeth/
(MSM)
