Wow of the week: Scientists make human “teeth” from urine in latest test of stem cell tech

If you think youve heard about all the cool regenerative medicine uses for stem cells, think again. A group of researchers fromGuangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health in China have used stem cells from urine to grow human teeth.

The induced pluripotent stem cells were developed into epithelial cells which cover the surface of the body. The epithelial cells were combined withmouse embryonic mesenchymal cells. Together they grew components of teeth enamel, dentin, cementum and pulp and transplanted them into mice. They were not as strong as human teeth and were likened to tooth buds.

One reason why many of us may not have heard about this technology before now is that its not the best the source of stem cells, Chris Mason, a professor and stem cell scientist from the University College London, told the BBC:

He added that stem cells also carry a higher contamination risk than other cells.

It seems like a lot of work considering the cheaper options available on the market, like implants. But it underscores the widespread interest in advancing stem cell technology.

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Wow of the week: Scientists make human “teeth” from urine in latest test of stem cell tech