Scientists have found a new way to use human urine. They can turn it into a material used for making dental and bone implants. In the past, treated urine has been used for things like fertilizer and flushing toilets. But now, researchers say it can also help make useful medical materials and reduce waste.

The study was done by scientists from the University of California, Irvine, along with teams from the US and Japan. It was published in the journal Nature Communications. They used a special yeast system to change urine into hydroxyapatite (HAp). This is a natural part of our teeth and bones and helps make them strong.

Hydroxyapatite is already used in tooth and bone implants, fixing old objects, and making materials that slowly break down inside the body. The market for HAp is growing fast. By 2030, it could be worth over $3.5 billion. One kilogram of it can sell for more than $80. That’s why turning urine into HAp could be a smart and low-cost idea.

Scientists say their idea was inspired by how our body forms bones. They created a special yeast system called osteoyeast. This yeast uses enzymes to break down urea (a chemical in urine) and raise the pH level, which helps form a useful material. “This process does two things,” said David Kisailus, a professor at the University of California, Irvine. “It helps clean urine from wastewater, reducing pollution, and at the same time, it creates a material that can be sold and used in many ways.”

However, scientists also say that urine must be treated properly to stay safe and prevent disease. People may not accept the idea easily due to cultural or social beliefs, so public education will be important. Reusing urine in this way could help manage resources, save water, and protect the environment.

The researchers are also exploring more ways to use hydroxyapatite (HAp), the material made from urine. It is light, strong, and lasts a long time. They plan to use their yeast system along with 3D printing to create new materials for different uses.