VIP Research Guide: Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Neuromodulator
VIP is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide with broad research relevance across immune modulation, vasodilation, and neuroinflammation.
What is VIP?
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, gut, and immune tissue.
Mechanism of action
VIP activates VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, both class-B GPCRs coupled to cAMP-mediated signaling. Downstream effects include vasodilation, bronchodilation, secretion of pancreatic enzymes, and broad immunomodulatory activity favoring a regulatory / anti-inflammatory phenotype.
The peptide is being explored in research contexts as varied as sarcoidosis, neurodegeneration, and CIRS (chronic inflammatory response syndrome).
Sourcing & purity
Research-grade material should be ≥99% pure by HPLC with peptide content confirmed via mass spectrometry. Redline Bio material ships with batch documentation; independent third-party COAs are published on the lab reports page as testing returns.
Compliance reminder
Sold and distributed for laboratory research use only. Not approved by the FDA for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or cure of any disease. Researchers are responsible for compliance with all applicable institutional, state, and federal regulations.
Frequently asked questions
What is VIP?
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide is a 28-residue peptide originally isolated from porcine intestine. It belongs to the secretin/glucagon peptide superfamily.
Mechanism?
VIP binds two G-protein-coupled receptors — VPAC1 and VPAC2 — activating cAMP signaling. Effects include potent vasodilation, bronchodilation, suppression of pro-inflammatory Th1 cytokines, and induction of regulatory T-cell phenotypes.
Half-life?
Very short — under 2 minutes in circulation, driven by rapid dipeptidyl peptidase degradation. Research protocols typically use short infusion or intranasal routes.