Definition ∞ A relayer contract is a smart contract that facilitates communication and transaction execution between different blockchain networks or protocols. It acts as an intermediary, receiving messages or requests from one chain and forwarding them to another, often handling the gas fees for the destination transaction. These contracts are vital for enabling interoperability in decentralized ecosystems.
Context ∞ The security and reliability of relayer contracts are paramount for the safe transfer of assets and data across blockchains. A critical discussion point involves designing these contracts to be trust-minimized and resistant to censorship or malicious manipulation. Future iterations will likely incorporate more advanced cryptographic proofs and decentralized governance to enhance their integrity.