Japanese Scientists Begin Human Trials for Tooth Regrowth Drug with Goal of 2030 Release

WCTU CLEVELAND 13 — Japanese researchers have launched the first human clinical trials of a groundbreaking drug designed to stimulate the growth of a third set of teeth, aiming to offer an alternative to dentures and implants by 2030. The trial, led by Dr. Katsu Takahashi at the Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital in Osaka, began in October 2024 at Kyoto University Hospital and involves 30 adult males aged 30 to 64 who are each missing at least one tooth.

"It's a technology completely new to the world," Takahashi told AFP. "Restoring natural teeth definitely has its advantages."

The experimental medicine, administered intravenously, targets a protein called USAG-1, which scientists believe suppresses the growth of additional teeth. By blocking this protein, researchers were able to regrow teeth in animal models, including mice and ferrets, publishing images that demonstrate successful regrowth.

The inspiration for this approach stems from the discovery that humans, despite being diphyodont—meaning they grow only two sets of teeth—may possess latent buds for a third set. “The idea of growing new teeth is every dentist’s dream,” Takahashi said to The Mainichi in 2023. “We’re hoping to see a time when tooth regrowth medicine is a third choice alongside dentures and implants.”

The initial phase of the trial is focused on evaluating the drug's safety, not efficacy. However, if tooth regrowth occurs in these adult participants, it would suggest broader applications for people suffering from tooth loss due to aging, injury, or disease. Takahashi remarked, “I would be over the moon if that happens.”

While the trial currently excludes children, the long-term objective is to treat young patients with congenital tooth deficiency—those born missing four or more permanent teeth, a condition affecting roughly 0.1 percent of the population. In Japan, many adolescents with this condition wear face masks to hide visible gaps.

The researchers hope to introduce the treatment for children between ages 2 to 7 by the end of the decade. “This drug could be a game-changer for them,” Takahashi added.

Experts worldwide have acknowledged the significance of the Japanese team's work. Angray Kang, a dentistry professor at Queen Mary University of London, noted, “I would say that the Takahashi group is leading the way.” Kang emphasized the potential of the research, given the existence of a similar antibody used for osteoporosis treatment. “This is only the beginning,” he said.

Chengfei Zhang, a clinical professor in endodontics at the University of Hong Kong, called the method “innovative and holds potential” but urged caution, citing that animal study outcomes don’t always directly apply to humans. He also questioned whether newly grown teeth could match the functionality and appearance of natural teeth.

Despite these challenges, the prospect of regrowing human teeth has captivated global interest, especially in aging populations. In Japan, where over 90 percent of people aged 75 or older are missing at least one tooth, the demand for non-invasive dental solutions is growing.

“Expectations are high that our technology can directly extend their healthy life expectancy,” Takahashi said.

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