Japanese Drug Aims to Regrow Teeth by Targeting USAG-1 Protein

Dec 14, 2024, 06:00 AM

Japanese researchers are testing a pioneering drug aimed at regrowing teeth by targeting the USAG-1 protein, potentially offering an alternative to dentures and implants. Clinical trials began in October at Kyoto University Hospital, with the drug being administered to adults who have lost at least one tooth. The treatment has shown promising results in animal testing, including mice and ferrets. The research, led by Katsu Takahashi from the Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital in Osaka, aims to make the drug available for children by 2030, focusing initially on those with congenital conditions causing tooth loss.