Description

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is a neuropeptide consisting of 28 amino acid residues. It belongs to the secretin-glucagon-CRF superfamily of peptides and was first isolated from the porcine duodenum in 1970.

VIP acts both as a neurotransmitter and a hormone in the body and is widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Biological Activity & Mechanism of Action

VIP exerts its effects by binding to three G-protein-coupled receptors: PAC1, VPAC1, and VPAC2.

Its primary biological activities include:

• Vasodilation: Widening of blood vessels, which lowers arterial blood pressure.

• Smooth Muscle Relaxation: Relaxation of the trachea, stomach, and gallbladder.

• Stimulation of Myocardial Contractility: Increasing the force of heart muscle contractions.

• Increased Glycogenolysis: Promoting the breakdown of glycogen for energy.

• Anti-inflammatory & Immunomodulatory Effects: Acting as an antiproliferative and immune-regulatory peptide.

Applications

🔬 Research & Pharmaceutical Applications

VIP is widely used as a research reagent in several fields:

• Neuroscience: As a major peptide transmitter in the nervous system.

• Immunology: For its anti-inflammatory and immune-regulatory properties.

• Oncology: As an antiproliferative agent.

• Drug Development: An injectable formulation of VIP, combined with the adrenergic drug phentolamine, is being explored as a potential treatment for erectile dysfunction.

💄 Cosmetic Applications

In the cosmetics industry, VIP is used as a synthetic peptide ingredient with the INCI name sh-Polypeptide-71. It is valued for its skin and hair benefits:

• Skin Firming & Revitalization: It is proposed to have firming and revitalizing effects on the skin.

• Keratinocyte Proliferation: It stimulates the proliferation of cultured human keratinocytes (skin cells).

• Synergistic Effects: It reinforces the effects of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) on skin cells.

• Anti-Aging: It is included in anti-aging and anti-wrinkle cosmetic formulations.

Important Note on Usage

• Research Grade: Products like those from TargetMol, Biorbyt, and others are intended for research purposes only and are not for human therapeutic use.

• Cosmetic Grade: When used in cosmetics, it is applied topically as part of skincare formulations.