Portuguese 
English 
Spanish 
2 min of reading 
0 comments 
Human Urine Becomes a Promising Biomaterial Source With the Help of Modified Yeast, Producing Hydroxyapatite for Dental Implants in Less Than 24 Hours
Researchers from the United States and Japan have developed an innovative technique to transform human urine into a durable and biocompatible material, ideal for dental implants.
The study was published in the journal Nature Communications and represents an important advancement in the production of biomaterials.
The research involved universities from both countries and received funding from agencies such as the U.S. Department of Energy, the Air Force, and DARPA.
-
Scientists found hidden within the plants a DNA archive that survived intact for more than four hundred million years.
-
NASA astronauts have captured from the International Space Station rare lightning that shoots upwards instead of falling to Earth, like the giant jet photographed in 2025 by astronaut Nichole Ayers, high-altitude electrical phenomena almost impossible to see from the ground.
-
Amid fears of a Chinese invasion, Taiwan unveiled war robot dogs in three versions: one for reconnaissance, one for surveillance, and an armed one for fire support. The military has already shown interest, although no formal purchase has been made so far.
-
With no boss around, no traffic, and more comfort at home, remote work has gained millions of fans, but now a study links the model to a worrying increase in mental suffering.
The technique uses a genetically modified yeast, nicknamed “osteoyeast,” which can decompose the urea present in urine and release a valuable compound: hydroxyapatite.
This mineral is the main component of human bones and teeth. It is formed by molecules of calcium, phosphate, and hydroxide.
Due to its natural presence in the body, it has high biocompatibility, meaning it is minimally rejected by the body and can even stimulate tissue regeneration.
The technique has two main effects: it transforms human waste into a high-value product and also helps reduce the environmental impact caused by urine disposal.
According to scientists, it is possible to obtain 1 gram of hydroxyapatite from just 1 liter of urine — and that in less than 24 hours.
“The process helps remove urine from sewage systems, reducing pollution and excess nutrients that can be harmful. At the same time, it creates a material with great potential for use,” explained David Kisailus, a professor at the University of California and a co-author of the research.
Another positive aspect is that the technique is inexpensive and can be applied on a large scale. The yeast used in the process can be cultivated in large tanks and at low temperatures — an approach similar to beer brewing. This allows the method to function without the need for large industrial structures.
According to Kisailus, this factor makes the solution especially attractive for developing countries. Producing the mineral in places with fewer resources can facilitate access to quality and low-cost medical materials.
In addition to dental and bone implants, the material may have other applications. Scientists cite uses in restoring archaeological artifacts, replacing plastics with biodegradable alternatives, and even projects in construction.
The next step for the team will be to adapt the process for 3D printers. With this, it will be possible to manufacture custom parts for both medical and industrial purposes.
With information from UOL.
-
1 person reacted to this.