What is the Origin of Nasal Peptide Delivery?

The concept originated in pharmaceutical science as researchers sought to overcome the poor oral bioavailability and short half-life of large, fragile peptide molecules. The nasal route was recognized for its large surface area, high blood flow, and avoidance of first-pass hepatic metabolism. The term describes the physical process of mucosal absorption into the systemic circulation.

What is the Mechanism of Nasal Peptide Delivery?

The peptide is formulated with permeation enhancers that temporarily and safely disrupt the tight junctions between the nasal epithelial cells. This disruption allows the peptide molecules to pass across the mucosal barrier and into the underlying capillaries, achieving rapid systemic bioavailability. For certain lipophilic peptides, the mechanism also includes direct transport along olfactory and trigeminal nerve pathways into the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier.

Nasal Peptide Delivery ∞ Area

Nasal Peptide Delivery

Meaning

Nasal Peptide Delivery is a specialized route of pharmaceutical administration that involves applying peptide-based therapeutic agents to the highly vascularized mucosal lining of the nasal cavity. This method is specifically utilized to achieve systemic drug absorption without the need for injection or to facilitate direct transport to the central nervous system. It offers a non-invasive and convenient alternative for drugs, like certain hormones or neuropeptides, that would otherwise be destroyed by the digestive tract. This delivery system is a significant focus in personalized medicine.