Laurocapram, also known as Azone or 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, is a synthetic compound that is commonly used as a penetration enhancer in topical drug formulations. It aids in the delivery of drugs through the skin by increasing their permeability. The mechanism of action of laurocapram involves several factors:

1. Disruption of the Stratum Corneum: The outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, acts as a barrier to the penetration of drugs. Laurocapram disrupts the structure of the stratum corneum by interacting with the lipids present in this layer. It solubilizes the lipids and increases the fluidity of the stratum corneum, making it easier for drugs to pass through.

2. Interactions with Keratin: Keratin is a protein that is abundant in the stratum corneum. Laurocapram has been shown to interact with keratin, altering its structure and increasing its permeability. This interaction helps to loosen the tightly packed keratinocytes in the stratum corneum, allowing drugs to penetrate more effectively.

3. Increased Drug Solubility: Laurocapram has surfactant-like properties, which means it can solubilize hydrophobic drugs that have poor water solubility. By increasing the solubility of drugs in the skin's lipid matrix, laurocapram enhances their ability to penetrate the skin.

4. Fluidization of Lipid Bilayers: The stratum corneum consists of multiple lipid bilayers, which act as a barrier to drug diffusion. Laurocapram disrupts these bilayers by fluidizing them, reducing their cohesive forces and increasing the permeability of the skin.

5. Reduction of Skin Barrier Resistance: The combination of the above mechanisms ultimately leads to a reduction in the skin barrier resistance. Laurocapram increases the overall permeability of the stratum corneum, allowing drugs to pass through more easily.