The drug itself is administered intravenously and deactivates the USAG-1 protein, which is associated with suppression of tooth growth. Early genetic studies have shown that blocking the interaction of USAG-1 with other proteins stimulates the formation of new bone.
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This idea formed the basis for the development of the drug. Its trials on mice and ferrets showed good results: it was possible to grow new teeth in animals, as well as strengthen their bone tissue without side effects.
The researchers note that the USAG-1 protein in mice has a 97 percent amino acid similarity to human protein. This gives them hope that the effect will be the same in humans as well.
The developers of the drug, who have been working on it since 2005, hope that in the future the drug can be used not only for patients who have congenital dental defects, but also for those who for one reason or another have lost their teeth at any age.
If all stages of clinical trials go smoothly, the drug could be available on the medical market by 2030.
