Japanese researchers have developed an experimental drug that could enable humans to regrow teeth, with human trials beginning as early as September 2024.

The drug targets the antibody USAG-1, which inhibits tooth growth, and animal studies in ferrets and mice have shown promising results when USAG-1 is suppressed.

The current trial involves 30 men aged 30 to 64 who are missing at least one tooth, with the drug administered intravenously to evaluate safety and effectiveness, and no side effects have been reported in animal tests.

This breakthrough aims to provide a permanent cure for toothlessness, a condition affecting millions worldwide, with the potential for the treatment to be available around 2030.

Future plans include expanding the treatment to children aged 2 to 7 missing at least four teeth, aiming to make tooth regeneration accessible to a broader population.

The research builds on discoveries from Kyoto University, which studied the interaction between USAG-1 and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), both critical to tooth development.