Using peptides to increase transport across the intestinal barrier

•Types of peptide enhancers. Consideration of origin and characteristics.•Classification of the mechanisms of absorption used by intestinal absorption peptide enhancers.•Analysis of the possible toxicity caused by peptide enhancers.•Study and comparison of formulation alternatives. Use of chemical conjugation, physical mixtures, and nanoparticles.•Advantages and drawbacks of using intestinal absorption peptide enhancers.

The oral route is the preferred for the administration of drugs; however, it has some serious limitations. One of the main disadvantages is poor permeability across the intestinal barrier. Various approaches are currently being adopted to overcome this issue. In this review, we describe the alternatives that use peptides to enhance intestinal absorption. First, we define the various sources of peptide enhancers followed by the analysis of the absorption mechanism used. We then comment on the possible toxic effects derived from their use as permeation enhancers, as well as potential formulation strategies. Finally, the advantages and drawbacks of peptides as intestinal enhancers are examined.

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