Society

Japanese scientists have developed a treatment capable of regrowing teeth after they were thought to have been lost forever following an infection or a bad fall. 

Since the initial results have been so good, trials are about to begin on humans. Tests were first carried out on mice and then on ferrets. The experiment proved conclusive, as the scientists were able to regenerate new teeth in the same way as bones after a trauma. The results were so promising (with no side effects) that the treatment, which is applied intravenously, is to be tried on human guinea pigs, reports the Belgian media outlet 7sur7.

An antibody that activates the right buttons

The starting point for the experiment? Genetics. In humans, as in most mammals, tooth regeneration is blocked by the USAG-1 gene, reports 7sur7. Once the individual has reached full growth, this gene interacts with other proteins to block the activation of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP). This is a specific ‘growth activator’ that causes teeth to grow. In order to grow new teeth, it's sufficient to deactivate the famous gene. This is what a team of Japanese researchers has done by developing an antibody capable of pressing the right genetic buttons. 

Tests on human guinea pigs 

A large-scale test involving 30 men (aged between 30 and 64) who are missing at least one molar will be conducted by Kyoto University Hospital. Dentists hope to see the new shiny ivory ‘fangs’ grow between September 2024 and August 2025. A second test will then be carried out on children aged between 2 and 7 who are missing at least four teeth as a result of congenital dental deficiency (which affects around 1% of the population), reports 7sur7. Finally, a series of tests will be carried out on adults who are missing one to five teeth, and who suffer from partial edentulism due to infections, nutritional deficiencies or smoking. 

Market launch in 2030

Scientists predict that the treatment could be on the market by 2030. Despite everything, let's continue to take care of this rare and useful enamel treasure that is our teeth! 

(MH with AsD - Source: 7sur7 - Illustration: Unsplash)