Japanese scientists are set to begin the world’s first clinical trials for a “tooth regrowth medicine” at Kyoto University Hospital.
Researchers from Toregem Biopharma will test an antibody treatment on patients with congenital anodontia, a condition where individuals are born missing some or all of their teeth. This treatment deactivates the USAG-1 protein, allowing tooth buds to develop into baby or permanent teeth. The first phase of the trial will involve 30 healthy male adults missing at least one back tooth to ensure the treatment’s safety. The second phase, scheduled for next year, will include children aged two to seven with congenital anodontia.
If successful, this treatment could offer a new option for those missing teeth due to birth conditions or cavities, providing an alternative to implants or dentures.