Japanese researchers have found a way to grow teeth in mice.  These teeth were seeded into the jaw bone as germs.  The germs grew into healthy teeth capable of performing normal tooth functions.  All the necessary parts were present and capable of functioning normally.

Takashi Tsuji, Professor in the Research Institute for Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, and Director of Organ Technologies Inc, led the team that developed the technology.  The team bio-engineered a tooth germ that could be transplanted into the mouth of mice.  The tooth developed into a normal tooth complete with enamel, dentin, pulp, nerve, blood vessel, and bone.

The process requires stem cells in order to work.  From the stem cells the scientists were able to develop “a method for creating three-dimensional bio-engineered organ germ, which can be used as an ectodermal organ such as the tooth or whisker follicle.”

Tooth regeneration has not been perfected yet.  The researchers are working on ways to control the size, cusp width, and cusp position.  It wouldn’t do to have regenerative teeth that were either too big or too small for the recipient’s mouth or to have the new teeth coming in side ways which would disrupt adjoining teeth and possibly tongue movement.

Once this process is perfected and ready for human use, it could replace bridges, inserts and dentures.  The process would not be entirely painless since the rotten tooth would still need to be pulled.  Once the site of the former tooth healed, then an oral surgeon would have to drill down in the bone to set the tooth germ and sew up the area.  It would take a month or more for the new tooth to come in.  The tooth, of course, would arrive just like all teeth do, by splitting the gum.

Using specialized “germs” made from stem cells will hopefully allow not just the regeneration of teeth but also the regeneration of other cells as well.  This could be a method of regenerating organs like livers, kidneys, lungs and hearts.

Regenerating teeth in mice is a huge step forward in the field of Organ Technologies.  This bioengineering technique holds promise for further medical breakthroughs, but it will be some time before it will be ready for use in humans.

For now, continue brushing your teeth and seeing the dentist for regular checkups.

Graphics from Takashi Tsuji’s Laboratory

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Entry was posted on Thursday, August 6th, 2009 at 5:33 pm under Science and technology.

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