Simultaneous permeation and metabolism of methyl nicotinate in human, snake, and shed snake skin

Abstract

The transdermal permeation and metabolic characteristics of methyl nicotinate (MN) in stratum corneum and split‐thickness of human skin and three species of shed snake and snake skin (Elaphae obsoleta, Naja kaouthia and Python molurus bivittatus) were evaluated. The total flux from MN‐saturated solution through human skin was not significantly different with that through snake and shed snake skin of Elaphae obsoleta and Naja kaouthia, but significantly higher than that through snake and shed snake skin of Python molurus bivittatus (P<0.05). A great difference in skin esterase activity was observed between human and snake in both snake skin and shed snake skin of all species. NA flux increased with an increase in MN donor concentration and reached a plateau, suggesting that metabolic saturation was taking place in the skin. NA flux at the plateau and MN donor concentrations at which the NA flux reached a plateau also varied by species. These findings indicated that the discrepancy in transdermal profiles of MN among skins tested was predominantly due to the difference in the esterase activity in the skin. This research was supported by the Thailand Research Fund and the Ministry of Education, Thailand (RMU 4880011).