VIP

VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) Research Standard

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide that plays a pivotal role in signaling across various biological systems. As a member of the secretin/glucagon superfamily, synthetic porcine VIP is extensively utilized in laboratory research to investigate G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) systems, specifically the VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors. By acting as a high-affinity ligand for these receptors, VIP serves as a critical probe for examining intracellular signaling cascades, particularly the stimulation of cyclic AMP (cAMP) pathways, in controlled in vitro and cellular models.

Technical Specifications

Mechanism of Action & Research Context

VIP is investigated for its specific engagement with G-protein-coupled receptors, functioning as a primary tool for exploring receptor-mediated signaling kinetics.

• Receptor Interaction: The peptide is studied for its high-affinity binding to VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, which are crucial for cellular homeostasis and neural signaling.

• cAMP Pathway Signaling: VIP is used to characterize the activation of adenylyl cyclase, which leads to the production of cyclic AMP (cAMP). This makes it an essential tool for quantifying GPCR-mediated downstream effects in isolated tissue or cell-line models.

• Structural Specificity: Research centers on the 28-amino-acid sequence, ensuring that structural modifications in experimental analogs can be benchmarked against the full-length peptide to determine selectivity and binding efficacy.

Research Applications

VIP is a specialized reagent essential for modern endocrinology and neuro-pharmacological research.

Primary fields of in vitro laboratory investigation include:

• Receptor Binding Assays: Quantifying the affinity and selectivity of ligand interactions with VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors.

• Binding Kinetics: Determining the association ($k_{on}$) and dissociation ($k_{off}$) rates in receptor-ligand complex formation.

• Antagonist & Analog Studies: Benchmarking modified peptide analogs or receptor antagonists against native VIP to identify pharmacophore requirements.

• Cell Culture Models: Evaluating receptor expression levels and signaling responsiveness in varied cell lines under standardized conditions.

Storage & Handling Guidelines

To maintain the chemical stability and experimental reliability of the peptide:

• Lyophilized Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. The lyophilized powder can be maintained at room temperature for short-term handling, provided it is protected from direct light.

• Long-term Storage: Keep sealed containers at -20°C for extended stability.

• Reconstituted Stability: If reconstituted in a buffer, store the resulting solution refrigerated (2°C – 8°C). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to prevent degradation of the peptide sequence.

• Aseptic Technique: Always use sterile, dry equipment to draw samples. Ensure the container remains tightly sealed between uses to prevent moisture ingress and cross-contamination.

Research Use Disclaimer

Research Use Only Disclaimer: This product is developed and distributed strictly as a Research Use Only (RUO) laboratory reference chemical intended exclusively for non-clinical analytical and scientific investigation. It is not an FDA-approved drug, medical treatment, dietary supplement, or food ingredient, and is strictly prohibited for human or animal consumption. Kimera Chems supplies this high-purity research material solely to qualified institutions and professional investigators for authorized laboratory research.