VIP
VIP research peptide. Lyophilized powder, ≥99% purity by HPLC. For research use only.
About VIP
What is VIP?
VIP, or vasoactive intestinal peptide, is a neuropeptide of 28 amino acids. It was first isolated from intestinal tissue – hence the name – but is now known to occur throughout the central and peripheral nervous system, where it acts as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator.
Virexa Labs supplies VIP as a lyophilised research peptide for in-vitro laboratory research only. It is not intended for human or veterinary use.
Structure and receptors
VIP belongs to the glucagon/secretin family of peptides, which also includes secretin, glucagon and PACAP (pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide). It acts mainly through two G-protein-coupled receptors, VPAC1 and VPAC2, which are present on many cell types – from smooth-muscle and epithelial cells to immune cells.
Because these receptors are so widely distributed, VIP is studied in very different disciplines, making it one of the more versatile neuropeptides in laboratory research. Its sequence is also highly conserved among mammals, which makes results from different animal and cell models easier to compare.
Research areas
VIP has been studied in cell-culture and animal models in areas including:
- Neuro-immune research: how VIP influences immune cells such as macrophages and T cells
- Vascular research, including vasodilation and smooth-muscle relaxation
- Pulmonary research in airway and lung tissue models
- Gastrointestinal research on secretion and motility
- Circadian rhythm research, as VIP is expressed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus
Handling, reconstitution and storage
As a longer peptide, VIP deserves careful handling. It is also known to be degraded quickly by peptidases in biological fluids – something to take into account when designing in-vitro experiments. Store the lyophilised powder at −20 °C, dry and dark; 2–8 °C is fine for short periods. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water, added slowly along the vial wall, and swirl gently – vigorous shaking should be avoided.
Keep the solution at 2–8 °C, use it within about 4 weeks and avoid freeze–thaw cycles.
If you buy VIP for research from Virexa Labs, every batch is verified by HPLC (≥99% purity) and mass spectrometry, with the COA shown on this page.
Frequently asked questions
What is VIP?
VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide) is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide of the glucagon/secretin family. As a research peptide it is studied in neuro-immune, vascular and pulmonary models.
Which receptors does VIP act on?
VIP acts mainly on the G-protein-coupled receptors VPAC1 and VPAC2. These receptors are found on many cell types, including smooth-muscle, epithelial and immune cells.
How do I store VIP?
Lyophilised at −20 °C, dry and protected from light (2–8 °C short term). Reconstituted at 2–8 °C, used within about 4 weeks and without repeated freezing and thawing.
What do I reconstitute VIP with?
Usually with bacteriostatic water. Add it slowly along the vial wall and swirl gently until dissolved; avoid shaking. The volume depends on the concentration your protocol requires.
Is VIP suitable for human use?
No. VIP from Virexa Labs is intended exclusively for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or veterinary use.