VIP (Therapeutic)
VIP — Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide
A 28-amino acid neuropeptide with profound immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. VIP is one of the most potent endogenous suppressors of cytokine storms and is being studied for autoimmune disease, ARDS, and post-viral inflammatory syndromes.
Mechanism of Action
VIP acts on VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors expressed on T-cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and mast cells. It suppresses Th1 and Th17 responses while promoting Th2 and Treg activity, shifting immune balance away from destructive inflammation. It potently inhibits TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12, and IFN-γ production while upregulating anti-inflammatory IL-10. VIP also relaxes smooth muscle in the lungs and gut, reduces vascular permeability, and protects against ischemia-reperfusion injury. Its dual role as a neurotransmitter and immune modulator makes it uniquely positioned at the neuro-immune interface.
Health Claims & Evidence
Suppresses cytokine storm and systemic hyperinflammation
Reduces autoimmune inflammation (rheumatoid arthritis, MS, IBD)
Lung protection in ARDS and respiratory inflammation
Promotes regulatory T-cell (Treg) expansion
Gut motility regulation and intestinal anti-inflammatory effects
Potential benefit in post-viral inflammatory syndromes (Long COVID)
Short-Term Effects
Rapid reduction in inflammatory symptoms, improved respiratory function, reduced joint pain in inflammatory conditions.
Long-Term Effects
Sustained immune balance, reduced autoimmune disease activity, improved gut and lung health.
Side Effects
Transient facial flushing, mild hypotension at higher doses. Generally well-tolerated at therapeutic doses.
Contraindications
Caution in hypotension or cardiovascular instability. Short half-life limits systemic toxicity risk.
This profile is provided for educational research only. It is not a treatment recommendation or dosing guide. Human evidence, safety information and regulatory status vary by substance. Verify primary sources and consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical decisions.
Research Papers
Vasoactive intestinal peptide as an anti-inflammatory neuropeptide
Delgado M, Ganea D · Trends in Immunology · 2008
VIP treatment reduces severity of experimental arthritis
Delgado M et al. · Journal of Immunology · 2001
VIP in ARDS: Phase II clinical trial results
Matheson PJ et al. · Critical Care Medicine · 2005
Educational research only. This profile is not a treatment recommendation or dosing guide. Human evidence, safety information and regulatory status vary by substance. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical decisions.
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