Scientists are one step closer to growing replacement human teeth
Image credit: enisyavuz via Unsplash
Scientists have taken an important step toward growing replacement human teeth in the laboratory. A recent study developed a new material that better recreates the natural environment in which teeth form inside the mouth, giving developing cells the conditions they need to organize and grow more realistically. The breakthrough could help researchers move from experiments using mouse cells toward human cells and eventually stimulate them to form complete biological teeth. Although the technology remains experimental, the advance brings regenerative dentistry closer to a future in which lost teeth could potentially be replaced with newly grown natural ones.
Source
Zhang, Xuechen et al. “Generating Tooth Organoids Using Defined Bioorthogonally Cross-Linked Hydrogels.” ACS macro letters vol. 13,12 (2024): 1620-1626. doi:10.1021/acsmacrolett.4c00520
Additional Reading
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20260717-goodbye-implants-scientists-are-regrowing-teeth
https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/health/a73365861/human-new-teeth-regrowth-trials-timeline/