Japanese drug to regrow teeth: evidence and current limitations
What is being investigated
A Japanese team is developing an antibody targeting USAG-1, also known as SOSTDC1, a protein involved in regulating BMP and Wnt signaling during tooth development. The idea is to temporarily block its activity to allow certain tooth germs whose development stopped to continue growing.
What preclinical research has shown
A study published in 2021 showed that neutralizing antibodies against USAG-1 could restore tooth formation in certain mouse models of congenital tooth absence. The work also observed the formation of additional teeth in ferrets. These are important results, but they remain preclinical studies: they do not demonstrate that an adult can routinely regrow a tooth lost to decay, periodontal disease, or trauma.
Status of studies in humans
Update of October 9, 2026: Toregem reports that phase I of TRG035 has ended in Japan. On August 17, 2026, it announced that the PMDA had completed the required review of the notification for an exploratory phase IIa trial in children with severe congenital absence of teeth. The announcement anticipated starting participant enrollment after the center's ethics review. This does not amount to marketing authorization or demonstrate efficacy for replacing teeth lost to decay, periodontal disease, or trauma. At the time of this update, there is no approved treatment in routine use or published clinical results that establish its efficacy.
It is also too early to promise a commercialization date. Before a therapy can be offered broadly, its safety, patient selection, dosage, the shape and position of teeth that might develop, and long-term follow-up must be clarified.
What it means for patients today
The news represents a promising line of research, not an alternative available in the dental office.
Implants, bridges, and prostheses remain current options for replacing missing teeth according to each case.
Prevention and early treatment remain essential for preserving natural teeth.
Be wary of advertisements offering this drug outside an authorized trial or guaranteeing tooth regeneration.
Main sources
Educational notice: this content provides general information and does not replace an individual dental evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should be determined after a professional assessment.
Comments