TAPS-18

TAPS-18 is a synthetic antimicrobial peptide (AMP) developed for the adjunct treatment of periodontitis. It is typically administered as a 0.85% subgingival gel (marketed under the brand name Ace Helper) following mechanical debridement, such as scaling and root planing. The peptide functions by targeting and disrupting the cell membranes of periodontal pathogens, which helps to reduce the subgingival microbial load and facilitate the transition from a dysbiotic to a symbiotic microbial community. Clinical research, including pilot studies conducted at the University of Malaya, has evaluated its efficacy in improving clinical periodontal parameters like pocket depth and clinical attachment levels in patients with Stage III periodontitis.

Brand names

Ace Helper

Other names

0.85% synthetic antimicrobial peptide TAPS-18