VIP
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide
Half-life: ~2 minutes (plasma, rapid degradation)
Research Profile
Relative research assessments — educational reference only.
Target Receptors
Critical Research Warning
Research chemical — not for human consumption. Potent vasoactive and immunomodulatory peptide; cardiovascular effects possible. Not an approved drug.
"A 28-amino-acid neuropeptide with potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions. Being studied for autoimmune diseases, type 2 diabetes, and antiviral applications."
Full Description
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide widely distributed in the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. It was originally identified for its potent vasodilatory activity but is now recognized as a master immunomodulator: it inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine production, promotes regulatory T-cell differentiation, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects in models of autoimmune and inflammatory disease. VIP signaling via VPAC1/VPAC2 receptors is being studied in type 2 diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and as a potential antiviral target (including effects on SARS-CoV-2). Synthetic VIP and stable analogs are in development.
Mechanism of Action
Binds VPAC1 and VPAC2 G-protein-coupled receptors, activating adenylate cyclase and cAMP/PKA signaling, which modulates cytokine gene transcription (NF-κB inhibition), promotes regulatory T cells, and suppresses Th1/Th17 inflammatory responses.
Reported Benefits
- • Potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions
- • Promotes regulatory T-cell responses in models
- • Studied for type 2 diabetes via VPAC2 agonism
- • Potential antiviral and tissue-protective roles
Potential Side Effects
- • Rapid degradation limits dosing practicality
- • Vasodilation / flushing at higher doses
- • GI motility effects (diarrhea)
- • Limited human safety data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VIP known for?▼
Why is VIP hard to use as a drug?▼
What conditions is VIP being studied for?▼
For Research Reference Only
Not medical advice. Peptides may be regulated or restricted in your jurisdiction.
References
- 1.Therapeutic potential of vasoactive intestinal peptide and its receptor VPAC2 in type 2 diabetes.. PubMed (2022). Hou X, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36204104/ ↑
- 2.Vasoactive intestinal peptide: a potential target for antiviral therapy.. PubMed (2022). He Y, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35770640/ ↑
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