Molecular Characteristics
Complete Specifications
Structural Composition
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
Physical Properties
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide hormone characterized by a C-terminal amidation that contributes to structural stability. As a mid-length linear peptide, it is susceptible to enzymatic degradation in biological systems. Lyophilized storage under cold, dry conditions is recommended to preserve structural integrity. Protection from moisture, light exposure, and repeated freeze–thaw cycles helps maintain analytical consistency during laboratory research applications.
Research Applications
Neuropeptide Signaling Research
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) is utilized as an endogenous neuropeptide in research studies examining G-protein–coupled receptor signaling and intracellular regulatory pathways across neural and peripheral systems. Laboratory investigations focus on its role in:
- VPAC1 and VPAC2 Receptor Models: Investigation of receptor binding affinity and downstream signaling cascades
- cAMP-Dependent Pathway Studies: Evaluation of adenylate cyclase activation and protein kinase A (PKA) signaling
- Neurotransmitter Modulation Research: Analysis of intracellular mechanisms influencing synaptic communication
- Calcium Signaling Models: Examination of Ca²⁺-dependent intracellular responses following receptor activation
- Peptide Stability Studies: Investigation of structural persistence and signaling duration in laboratory systems
Experimental protocols commonly employ receptor-binding assays, neuronal cell cultures, and intracellular kinase activation analyses to characterize VIP-mediated signaling responses.
Gastrointestinal and Smooth Muscle Research
VIP has been examined in research contexts involving gastrointestinal signaling and smooth muscle regulatory pathways. Key areas of investigation include:
- Enteric Nervous System Models: Evaluation of neurogenic signaling within gastrointestinal tissues
- Smooth Muscle Relaxation Studies: Investigation of intracellular cascades influencing contractile regulation
- Secretory Pathway Research: Analysis of epithelial secretion signaling mechanisms
- Barrier Integrity Models: Research into tight junction regulation within epithelial systems
- Neuroimmune Interaction Studies: Examination of coordinated signaling between enteric neurons and immune cells
These studies utilize electrophysiological recordings, smooth muscle contractility assays, and intracellular signaling analyses to evaluate gastrointestinal regulatory outcomes.
Immune and Inflammatory Signaling Research
VIP has also been explored in research models examining immune modulation and inflammatory pathway coordination, including:
- Cytokine Expression Studies: Evaluation of transcriptional pathways influencing immune mediator balance
- T-Cell Differentiation Models: Investigation of intracellular cascades associated with adaptive immune signaling
- Inflammatory Pathway Research: Analysis of regulatory signaling balancing pro- and anti-inflammatory responses
- Oxidative Stress Models: Examination of redox-associated intracellular signaling mechanisms
Laboratory protocols assess cytokine quantification, immune cell marker expression, and intracellular kinase activation using biochemical and molecular techniques.
Cellular Signaling and Systemic Homeostasis Research
Additional research applications explore VIP’s influence on intracellular regulatory systems involved in neural, gastrointestinal, and immune coordination, including:
- MAPK and PI3K-AKT Pathway Studies: Investigation of cascades associated with receptor-mediated cellular responses
- Gene Expression Profiling: Analysis of transcriptional responses linked to neuropeptide signaling
- Receptor Sensitivity Research: Examination of adaptive signaling modulation within VPAC receptor systems
- Integrated Neuroimmune Network Models: Analysis of coordinated signaling systems maintaining systemic equilibrium
Research in this domain focuses on understanding how VIP influences VPAC receptor–mediated signaling pathways, neurogenic regulation, and immune-associated intracellular mechanisms under controlled experimental conditions.
Laboratory Handling and Storage Protocols
Lyophilized Powder Storage
- Store at –20°C to –80°C in the original, sealed vial
- Protect from light exposure and moisture
- A desiccated storage environment is recommended
- Stability data suggests extended stability when stored at −20 °C or below.
Reconstituted Solution Storage
- Short-term storage: Up to 7 days at 4°C
- Long-term storage: Store at –20°C in aliquots
- Use single-use aliquots to preserve peptide integrity
- Minimize freeze–thaw cycles; single-use aliquots are strongly recommended
Stability Characteristics
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) is a synthetic peptide research compound that demonstrates stable handling characteristics when managed under standard peptide laboratory protocols. Proper cold storage, protection from light, appropriate solvent selection, and minimized mechanical agitation help preserve structural integrity and solubility. When handled appropriately, VIP supports consistent use in in vitro and analytical research applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VIP?
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) is a naturally occurring neuropeptide involved in multiple physiological signaling systems. Synthetic research-grade VIP replicates this endogenous peptide for experimental investigation.
What is VIP commonly researched for?
In laboratory and preclinical models, VIP is studied for:
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VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptor signaling
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Neuroendocrine pathway research
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Smooth muscle receptor interaction models
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Immune modulation and cytokine pathway investigations
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Gastrointestinal signaling mechanisms
All applications are exploratory and conducted in controlled research environments.
Is VIP naturally occurring?
Yes. VIP is produced naturally in neurons and certain peripheral tissues. Research-grade VIP is synthesized to replicate the endogenous 28–amino acid sequence.
How does VIP differ from PACAP?
VIP and PACAP (Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase–Activating Polypeptide) are structurally related neuropeptides. While they share some receptor interactions, they differ in receptor affinity and signaling profiles in experimental models.
How is VIP supplied?
VIP is typically supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in sealed research vials to preserve stability during storage and shipment.
How should unreconstituted VIP be stored?
Lyophilized VIP should be stored:
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Long-term: −20 °C to −80 °C
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Short-term: 2–8 °C
Keep vials sealed and protected from light and moisture until use.
How should reconstituted VIP be handled and stored?
Once reconstituted:
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Store at 2–8 °C for short-term laboratory use
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For extended storage, aliquot and freeze at −20 °C or below
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Minimize freeze–thaw cycles using single-use aliquots
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Gently swirl to mix; avoid vigorous agitation
Does VIP require a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be available for each batch, verifying peptide identity, purity, and analytical testing results to ensure research quality and traceability.
Is VIP FDA-approved?
Research-grade VIP is not FDA-approved as a drug, supplement, or therapeutic product. It is sold exclusively as a research compound and must not be marketed or used for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumption purposes.
This product is not for human consumption. It is sold strictly for research and educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Any clinical data or research information referenced on this page is derived from peer-reviewed scientific literature and official publications. This information is provided for educational reference only and does not constitute medical advice or product claims.
By purchasing this product, you acknowledge that you are a qualified researcher and agree to use it in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
