01/01/2026
Human trials are underway for a drug designed to help the body regrow natural human teeth.
For a long time, losing permanent teeth has been seen as irreversible, forcing people to rely on dentures or dental implants. Now, scientists in Japan are working to change that belief.
Researchers at Kyoto University have started human trials of a new drug that aims to activate the body’s own ability to grow new teeth. The drug works by blocking a protein called USAG-1, which normally prevents extra teeth from developing. When this protein is inhibited, hidden or “dormant” tooth buds can begin to grow again.
In animal studies, this approach successfully produced new, fully formed teeth, suggesting that humans may also carry unused tooth-forming potential — sometimes described as a suppressed “third set” of teeth.
The research is being developed by Toregem BioPharma, a startup linked to Kyoto University. Early human trials are focused on people with congenital tooth agenesis, a condition where some adult teeth never develop. These patients are ideal candidates because tooth buds are present but inactive.
While this treatment still requires careful testing and time to prove safety and effectiveness, its success could change the future of dentistry. Instead of replacing missing teeth with artificial materials, future treatments may help the body regenerate real teeth naturally.
📄 Source: Takahashi K., Kiso H., Murashima-Suginami A. – Regenerative Therapy.
