Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a 28-amino-acid amidated neuropeptide first isolated from porcine intestine by Said and Mutt in 1970. It belongs to the secretin/glucagon peptide family, which also includes PACAP, and is a standard ligand in VPAC receptor research.
VIP Structure and Identifiers
| Name | VIP (human) |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 40077-57-4 |
| PubChem CID | 16132300 |
| Molecular formula | C147H237N43O43S |
| Molecular weight | ≈3325.8 g/mol |
| Length | 28 amino acids, C-terminal amide |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
Receptors
VIP binds two class B GPCRs, VPAC1 and VPAC2, with similar affinity, and PAC1 with lower affinity. Activation couples mainly to Gs and cAMP production, making VIP a reference agonist in cAMP-signaling assays.
Published In-Vitro Research Areas
- VPAC1/VPAC2 binding and cAMP assays
- Neuroimmune and cytokine-expression studies
- Peptide-stability and analog design
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Purity Testing and Storage
Every lot of VIP supplied by Cleared Peptides is tested by an independent laboratory for identity and purity (or composition, for multi-component preparations), and the lot Certificate of Analysis is published on our COA page. Store lyophilized VIP at −20 °C, sealed, dry and protected from light. Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening and minimize freeze–thaw cycles. Handle according to your institution’s chemical-hygiene procedures.
Research materials referenced in this guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What family does VIP belong to?
The secretin/glucagon superfamily of peptides, together with PACAP, secretin and GHRH.
Is VIP for human use?
No. Cleared Peptides supplies VIP for laboratory research use only; it is not for human or veterinary use.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Christophe J, et al. Vasoactive intestinal peptide receptors in pancreas and liver. Structure-function relationship. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1988;527:238-56. PubMed 2839079 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
