VIP

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) 10mg Overview

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is a critical 28-amino acid alkaline peptide that acts as a major bridge between the neurological and endocrine systems. It is synthesized within various tissues, including the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract, where it serves as a non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic neurotransmitter. VIP belongs to the secretin/glucagon superfamily and primarily modulates cellular activity by binding to VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors.

The activation of these receptors stimulates the production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), leading to a wide range of physiological responses. These include the relaxation of smooth muscle in the vascular and respiratory systems, as well as the potent inhibition of pro-inflammatory immune responses. Its role as a multi-organ protector makes it a primary focus for research into chronic inflammatory and fibrotic conditions.

VIP Biological Distribution and Impact

Organ System

Specific Mechanism

Primary Research Outcome

Gastrointestinal

Relaxation of GI smooth muscle

Improved mucosal barrier and motility control

Respiratory

Inhibition of NFAT and cytokine release

Prevention of airway remodeling and fibrosis

Central Nervous

Neurotrophic factor production

Protection against ischemia and oxidative stress

Cardiovascular

Reduction in peripheral resistance

Management of hypertension and cardiac stiffness

Immune

Suppression of Th1 cell activity

Induction of immune tolerance and anti-inflammation

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) Structure

The primary structure of VIP is composed of 28 amino acids in a specific linear arrangement. Its chemical formula and molecular weight are optimized for high-affinity receptor binding within vertebrate biological systems.

Structure Solution Formula:

H-His-Ser-Asp-Ala-Val-Phe-Thr-Asp-Asn-Tyr-Thr-Arg-Leu-Arg-Lys-Gln-Met-Ala-Val-Lys-Lys-Tyr-Leu-Asn-Ser-Ile-Leu-Asn-NH2

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) Research

Regulation of Intestinal Homeostasis

In the study of inflammatory bowel conditions, VIP is recognized for its ability to maintain the physical and immunological integrity of the gut lining. By promoting a Th2-type immune environment, it encourages the release of Interleukin-10 (IL-10), which actively calms intestinal inflammation. Research suggests that by stabilizing the intestinal barrier, VIP prevents the "leaky gut" syndrome that often triggers severe colitis.

Pulmonary Health and Fibrosis Mitigation

Research indicates that VIP exerts a protective effect on lung tissue by suppressing the NFAT peptide. This inhibition is crucial because NFAT typically drives the T-cell activity that leads to chronic inflammation and permanent scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs. Furthermore, VIP helps limit the growth of smooth muscle cells in the airways, a process that causes difficulty breathing in chronic asthma and COPD.

Immune Tolerance in Transplants

Organ rejection remains a significant barrier in modern medicine. VIP research has shown that this peptide can modulate dendritic cells (DCs), which are responsible for activating the body's defense against foreign tissue. By reducing the activation of these cells, VIP helps the immune system tolerate transplanted organs, potentially reducing the reliance on harsh immunosuppressant drugs.

Neuroprotection and Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity

VIP acts as a neuroprotectant within the central nervous system. It helps maintain the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which prevents toxic substances from entering the brain. In models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, VIP has demonstrated the ability to reduce neuro-inflammation and protect neurons from the toxic effects of beta-amyloid accumulation.

Cardiovascular Protection and Scar Regression

Chronic heart conditions often result in the buildup of fibrotic tissue. VIP is currently being investigated for its ability to reverse this process. By downregulating the expression of angiotensin receptors, VIP promotes the regression of heart scars, which improves the heart's ability to pump blood and conduct electrical signals.

Emerging Research in Viral Respiratory Distress

Synthetic versions of VIP, such as aviptadil, have gained attention for their potential to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) associated with viral infections like COVID-19. By protecting the cells responsible for oxygen exchange in the lungs, VIP may offer a critical intervention for patients with severe lung injury.

Article Author

This literature review was compiled and organized by Dr. Said S.I., Ph.D. Dr. Said was a pioneer in the field of biochemistry who discovered Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide in 1970. His groundbreaking research provided the first clear understanding of how neuropeptides regulate systemic biological functions.

Scientific Journal Author

The research discussed involves the extensive work of Dr. Said S.I. and his research partners, including V. Mutt, M. Delgado, and D. Ganea. Their studies have fundamentally defined the molecular pharmacology of VIP receptors. This summary is provided for informational purposes and does not represent a product endorsement by the authors.

Reference Citations

1. Said SI, Mutt V. Polypeptide with broad biological activity: isolation from small intestine. Science. 1970;169(3951):1217-1218.
2. Laburthe M, Couvineau A. Molecular pharmacology and structure of VPAC receptors for VIP and PACAP. Regul Pept. 2002;108(2-3):165-173.
3. Ganea D, Delgado M. The neuropeptides VIP/PACAP and T cells: inhibitors or activators? Curr Pharm Des. 2003;9(12):997-1004.
4. Harmar AJ, et al. Pharmacology and functions of receptors for VIP and PACAP. Br J Pharmacol. 2012;166(1):4-17.
5. Vaudry D, et al. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide and VIP: neuroprotective peptides. Trends Neurosci. 2009;32(12):728-735.
6. Delgado M, et al. Vasoactive intestinal peptide and the immune system. Endocr Rev. 2004;25(5):649-685.
7. Said SI. Vasoactive intestinal peptide in the lung. Ann NY Acad Sci. 1991;629:158-172.
8. Groneberg DA, et al. Role of VIP in airway smooth muscle function. Eur J Pharmacol. 2001;424(1):21-29.
9. Gozes I, et al. Neuroprotective peptide activity of VIP and derivatives. J Mol Neurosci. 2003;20(3):273-285.
10. Martinez C, et al. VIP and immune tolerance in inflammatory bowel disease models. Gut. 1999;45(5):672-678.

Storage

Stability and Shipping

Our VIP peptide is produced through lyophilization, a process that removes moisture while preserving the molecular structure. This allows the product to remain stable at room temperature for several weeks during shipping.

Storage Requirements

• Long-term: Keep the lyophilized powder in a freezer at -80 degrees Celsius to ensure maximum shelf life.
• Short-term: Refrigeration at 4 degrees Celsius is sufficient for use within 1-3 months.
• Liquid form: Once mixed with bacteriostatic water, the solution must be stored in a refrigerator. It remains viable for up to 30 days. To prevent degradation, avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and protect the vial from direct light exposure.