12.06.2026 19:22
An experimental drug developed by Japanese scientists, aimed at regrowing lost teeth, has begun human trials. The treatment method, which has shown successful results in mouse experiments, is considered a revolutionary development that could significantly reduce the use of dentures and implants if it also yields positive outcomes in clinical processes.
A drug developed by Japanese scientists aimed at regrowing lost teeth has begun testing on humans. If the treatment, which yielded successful results in mouse experiments, proves effective, a new era offering an alternative to dentures and implants could begin.
A breakthrough that could revolutionize dentistry has come from Japan. According to a report by The Sun, an experimental drug designed to regrow lost teeth has started being tested on humans as part of clinical trials. Researchers believe that if the treatment is successful, it could pave the way for a new era where millions of people may no longer need dentures or implants.
The drug, developed by Japanese biotech company Toregem Biopharma and currently known as TRG035, targets a protein called USAG-1 that suppresses tooth development. This antibody-based therapy aims to reduce the protein's effect, thereby activating the body's mechanism to form new teeth.
SUCCESSFUL RESULTS IN MICE
Researchers announced that the drug successfully stimulated new tooth growth in mice born without teeth. Following these results, clinical trials have moved to human testing. Approximately $5.3 million has been raised so far for the project's development.
A Phase 1 clinical trial began in October 2024 at Kyoto University Hospital, where the drug was tested on adult male volunteers. Although the final results of the trial have not yet been disclosed, the company is preparing for larger Phase 2 studies.
2030 TARGET
Scientists predict that if the clinical processes are completed successfully, the treatment could receive approval for use by 2030.
The treatment is initially planned for patients with a condition known as "severe congenital hypodontia," where many permanent teeth are missing from birth. However, researchers believe it may eventually prove effective for individuals who lose teeth due to gum disease, trauma, or other causes.
"EVERY DENTIST'S DREAM"
Dr. Katsu Takahashi, the lead researcher on the project, stated that growing new teeth has long been one of dentists' greatest goals, saying, "The idea of growing new teeth is every dentist's dream. I have been working on this since my student years and believed we could achieve it."
EXPERTS CAUTIOUS
However, some experts remain cautious about whether the method will achieve the expected success in humans. Some researchers suggest that the treatment may be more effective in growing individuals, while achieving similar results in adults could prove more difficult.
Nevertheless, if clinical studies yield positive results, a third option alongside dentures and implants could emerge for treating tooth loss. This is considered a revolutionary development in the history of dentistry.