The tooth fairy is a welcome guest for any child who has lost a tooth. Not only will the fairy leave a small gift under the child’s pillow, but they be assured of a replacement tooth in a few months. Unfortunately, the scenario is quite different for adults grappling with a loss of teeth. Luckily, there may be some hope thanks to a new study performed by scientists at Kyoto University and the University of Fukui.
A dental breakthrough
While the typical adult mouth houses 32 teeth, approximately 1% of the population exhibits variations of them, either possessing more or fewer teeth due to congenital conditions. Researchers have delved into the genetic factors behind cases of excessive teeth, seeking valuable insights into the potential regeneration of teeth in adults. This study is the first to show that monoclonal antibodies can help regrow teeth. It suggests a new way to treat a dental problem that currently requires implants and other artificial solutions.
A bit of science
The research team disclosed that an antibody targeting a specific gene, known as uterine sensitization-associated gene-1 (USAG-1), can induce tooth development in mice affected by tooth agenesis, a congenital condition. The findings were published in the journal, Science Advances.
As per Katsu Takahashi, a senior lecturer at the Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine and one of the principal contributors to the study, the essential molecules crucial for the development of teeth have already been pinpointed. “The morphogenesis of individual teeth depends on the interactions of several molecules including BMP, or bone morphogenetic protein, and Wnt signaling,” says Takahashi.

On April 13, 2021, the University of Kyoto posted its first pic of newly-grown teeth in mice.
BMP and Wnt are involved in more than just tooth development; they affect the growth of organs and tissues early in the body’s development. Because drugs affecting them directly might have broad side effects, scientists are cautious. To find a potentially safer method, researchers focused on the gene USAG-1, thinking that aiming at factors countering BMP and Wnt specifically in tooth development could be more precise.
“We knew that suppressing USAG-1 benefits tooth growth. What we did not know was whether it would be enough,” added Takahashi.
The first results
Scientists looked at how different monoclonal antibodies affect USAG-1. Monoclonal antibodies are often used to treat things like cancer and arthritis and for making vaccines. Tests with this antibody showed that BMP signaling is crucial for deciding the number of teeth in mice. Also, just one treatment was enough to grow a whole tooth. Further tests confirmed these positive results in ferrets too.
“Ferrets are diphyodont animals with similar dental patterns to humans. Our next plan is to test the antibodies on other animals, such as pigs and dogs,” explained Takahashi.

Fully regrown frontal teeth in ferrets
The next steps

Now, scientists are going to test the drug on healthy adults. If that goes well, the team plans to try it on kids aged 2 to 6 with a rare tooth problem called anodontia, a genetic disorder defined as the absence of all teeth. These kids will get one shot of the drug to see if it makes their teeth grow. If everything works out, the medicine might be approved by 2030.
Takahashi sees the new medicine as an additional choice for individuals who are missing some or all of their teeth.
“The idea of growing new teeth is every dentist’s dream,” Takahashi told the Japanese newspaper, The Mainichi in June this year. “I’ve been working on this since I was a graduate student. I was confident I’d be able to make it happen.”
So hopefully, by the year 2030, humans will get a chance to have their third generation of teeth grown and say goodbye to implants. Until then, make sure to keep your teeth strong and healthy — this article will help you with that.
Preview photo credit KyotoU_News / Twitter
At 65, Michelle Pfeiffer Shares Makeup-Free Selfie and Leaves Fans in Awe
Michelle Pfeiffer, the timeless icon of Hollywood glamour, recently sent shockwaves through social media by sharing a stunning makeup-free selfie on her Instagram account. The actress, celebrated for her roles in classics like Scarface, Batman Returns, and Dangerous Liaisons, graced her followers with a glimpse of her natural beauty, captivating hearts, and inspiring admiration across the digital world.
© michellepfeifferofficial / Instagram
In an age dominated by filters, digital enhancements, and carefully curated images, Pfeiffer’s decision to reveal her bare face to the world carries immense significance. The 65-year-old actress, renowned for her elegance and grace, defied societal norms that often dictate women, especially those in the public eye, must fit the unrealistic standards of perfection.
In the snapshot, Pfeiffer shows confidence and authenticity, her radiant complexion and genuine smile serving as proof of her inner beauty. The absence of makeup allows her natural features to shine, showcasing her ageless appeal and reminding audiences that true beauty transcends cosmetic procedures.
© michellepfeifferofficial / Instagram
The reaction to Pfeiffer’s makeup-free selfie was overwhelmingly positive, with fans and fellow celebrities alike expressing admiration and appreciation for her courage and honesty. Comments flooded in, praising her for embracing her natural self and setting a powerful example for women of all ages.
One user wrote, «I was so taken by how great and happy you look, I missed the solstice. Gorgeous inside and out naturally!»
Album Online/East News, EAST NEWS
As the image continues to circulate across social media platforms, it serves as a powerful reminder that true beauty radiates from within. Michelle Pfeiffer’s makeup-free selfie shows us all her timeless elegance, inner strength, and unwavering authenticity, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their natural selves and redefine society’s narrow standards of beauty.
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