Strange — But Revolutionary: Human Urine Becomes Material for Dental Implants and Could Point to the Future of Medicine

Written by Romário Pereira de Carvalho

Published on 18/07/2025 at 10:32

Cientistas criaram uma levedura modificada capaz de transformar ureia da urina em hidroxiapatita, um mineral usado em implantes dentários. Imagem: IA

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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.

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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.

Strange — But Revolutionary: Human Urine Becomes Material for Dental Implants and Could Point to the Future of Medicine

Human Urine Becomes a Promising Biomaterial Source With the Help of Modified Yeast, Producing Hydroxyapatite for Dental Implants in Less Than 24 Hours

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