VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) is a 28–amino acid neuropeptide widely distributed in the CNS, lungs, and gut. It exerts potent vasodilatory, bronchodilator…
Half-life
Very short in plasma (~1–2 minutes); effects may be prolonged with localized delivery or protected formulations.
Delivery
Intranasal spray or nebulized/inhaled routes for airway studies; subcutaneous or intravenous bolus/infusion in systemic physiology models.
Suggested dosage
Not specified
Usage
Research on airway diseases (bronchodilation, mucus regulation), gastrointestinal motility/secretions and barrier function, neuroprotection, and immune modulation (anti-inflammatory, Th2/Treg bias).
Mechanism of action
Binds VPAC1/VPAC2 (class B GPCRs) to activate Gs→adenylate cyclase→cAMP/PKA signaling, relaxing smooth muscle, enhancing epithelial secretion, and modulating cytokines; rapidly degraded by peptidases (e.g., DPP-IV, neutral endopeptidase).
Benefits (5)
- Bronchodilation and airway smooth-muscle relaxation
- Vasodilation and improved microcirculatory flow
- Reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling
- Support for epithelial barrier integrity and mucus regulation
- Neuroprotective/neuromodulatory effects in CNS models
Side effects (5)
- Flushing and warmth
- Headache or lightheadedness
- Transient hypotension or tachycardia (dose-dependent)
- Nasal/throat irritation with intranasal or inhaled use
- GI cramping or diarrhea in sensitive subjects
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