Delivery of peptides and proteins is critical for their clinical applications. Oral administration
of these molecules is not feasible due to degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. Peptides
and proteins are, hence, conventionally administered by the parenteral route. Transdermal
route offers a good alternative for parenteral delivery of proteins resulting in improved
patient compliance. However, due to their size and hydrophilicity, peptides and proteins are
unable to permeate through the skin. To overcome the skin barrier, various physical …

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the enhancement techniques that aid the
transport of proteins and peptides through skin, so advancing their delivery. The skin is the
largest organ of the human body and functions as a barrier, protecting the internal structures
of the body from the environment. Structurally, skin primarily consists of the epidermis,
dermis, and the underlying subcutaneous fat. The epidermis forms the outermost layer,
being exposed to the environment on one side and separated from the dermal tissue by a …