Overview
VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide) is a 28-amino-acid, C-terminally amidated neuropeptide belonging to the secretin/glucagon peptide superfamily. It is broadly distributed across neural, immune, and vascular tissues, where it functions as an endogenous signaling peptide. Its principal molecular targets are the class B G-protein-coupled receptors VPAC1 and VPAC2, which it engages with high affinity. It is produced synthetically as a reference peptide for laboratory research.
Mechanism as studied
The research literature characterizes VIP as an agonist at the VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, which couple predominantly through Gs protein to adenylyl cyclase and cyclic-AMP/protein-kinase-A signaling. In suprachiasmatic-nucleus neuron studies this signaling is described as synchronizing circadian oscillator activity. In immune-cell systems, receptor engagement is associated with modulation of regulatory T-cell populations and cytokine expression. In vascular smooth muscle, cAMP-mediated signaling is linked to relaxation and vasodilatory tone.
Research context
Contexts in which this compound appears in the in-vitro and preclinical research literature:
- Suprachiasmatic-nucleus neuron cultures examining circadian-oscillator synchronization.
- Immune-cell systems studying regulatory T-cell modulation and cytokine expression.
- Vascular smooth-muscle preparations measuring cAMP-dependent relaxation.
- Recombinant VPAC1/VPAC2 systems profiling receptor binding and downstream signaling.
- Preclinical rodent models of chronic inflammation and neurodegeneration.
Handling & storage
Supplied as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution in the laboratory, typically with bacteriostatic water to the working concentration required (e.g. 1 mL into a 10 mg vial gives 10 mg/mL). Swirl gently to dissolve rather than shaking or vortexing. Aliquot promptly after reconstitution to minimize freeze-thaw exposure.
Store the sealed lyophilized vial at −20 °C protected from light, where it is stable long-term. Reconstituted VIP should be refrigerated at 2–8 °C, used within the window documented for your protocol, and protected from repeated freeze-thaw.
Certificates of analysis
Independent and in-house certificates published for this compound. Each reports identity and HPLC purity for the tested lot.
Order VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
Lot-traceable, certificate-backed, and shipped cold-chain from the US.
For research use only
This guide is reference material for qualified researchers. The compound is an analytical-grade reference material supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and development — not a drug, supplement, or medical device, and not for human or animal consumption or any therapeutic, clinical, or diagnostic use. No medical claims are made or implied.
