Vip

VIP peptide stands for Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide, a naturally occurring neuropeptide widely distributed in the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.

What Is VIP?

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a 28–amino acid peptide hormone that functions as both:

• A neurotransmitter

• A neuromodulator

• A vasodilator

It was first isolated from the intestine but is also abundant in the brain, lungs, pancreas, and immune system.

Main Functions

VIP has broad physiological effects:

1. Vasodilation

• Relaxes smooth muscle in blood vessels

• Increases blood flow

• Lowers blood pressure

2. Gastrointestinal Regulation

• Stimulates intestinal water and electrolyte secretion

• Relaxes intestinal smooth muscle

• Promotes pancreatic bicarbonate secretion

3. Nervous System Role

• Acts as a neurotransmitter in the central and peripheral nervous systems

• Involved in circadian rhythm regulation (notably in the suprachiasmatic nucleus)

4. Immune Modulation

• Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties

• Modulates cytokine production

• Helps regulate T-cell activity