VIP
VIP is an endogenous 28-amino-acid neuropeptide discovered by Said and Mutt in 1970. It is one of the most extensively studied neuropeptides in biomedical research (>15,000 PubMed publications), functioning as a key regulator of the gut-brain axis, mucosal immunity, vasomotor tone, and circadian rhythm. In the peptide therapy space, VIP is primarily known for its use in the Shoemaker Protocol as the final step in treating Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) / mold illness. VIP levels are frequently low in CIRS patients, and intranasal VIP replacement has been reported to resolve persistent symptoms including fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and shortness of
This content is for educational and research purposes only. VialBase does not provide medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using any peptide.
Mechanism
Binds VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors (Class B GPCRs); activates cAMP/PKA signaling. Anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, vasodilatory, and neuroprotective. Key regulatory neuropeptide in gut-brain axis and mucosal immunity.
Dosing
CIRS/Shoemaker protocol: 50 mcg intranasal 4x daily for 30 days minimum. Must confirm MSH, VIP, and MMP-9 levels before and during treatment. VIP is the final step in the Shoemaker protocol.
Research summary
| Study | Type | Year | Key Finding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Induces Autophagy and Cytotoxicity in Renal Cell Carcinoma via SIRT3-Dependent Signaling Pathway | In vitro (cell line) | 2026 | VIP (0-50 microM) exhibits dose-dependent cytotoxicity in VPAC1-expressing RCC cells |
| Migraine in pediatric population: the role of biochemical markers including VIP | Review / clinical study | 2026 | VIP is a biochemical biomarker for migraine in pediatric populations |
| Acupuncture regulates gut microbiota and metabolites in a rat model of chronic migraine | Preclinical (rat model) | 2026 | Acupuncture modulated serum VIP levels alongside 5-HT and CGRP in chronic migraine rats |
Stacking & interactions
Gut healing + immune modulation
Anti-inflammatory peptide stack for CIRS/mast cell issues
Mitochondrial support in biotoxin-related mitochondrial dysfunction
Sourcing
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What bloodwork do I need?
Reference ranges are general guidelines. Consult your physician for interpretation.
- CMP
- CBC
- CRP
- ESR
- Blood Pressure
- Blood Pressure
- CRP
- CMP
- CBC
- CRP
Safety & Regulatory Status
Regulatory status for VIP may change. Verify current status with your jurisdiction before use. This is not legal or medical advice.
References
- Li L, Wang D, Zhang J, Xiao F, Shao C. Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Induces Autophagy and Cytotoxicity in Renal Cell Carcinoma via SIRT3-Dependent Signaling Pathway. Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology (2026). PMID: 41891524
- Multiple authors. Migraine in pediatric population: the role of biochemical markers including VIP. Journal of Headache and Pain (2026). PMID: 41935312
- Zheng H, Wang Z, Wei SJ, Huang LX, Han M, Zhang YK, Bai WJ, Han J. Acupuncture regulates gut microbiota and metabolites in a rat model of chronic migraine. Acupuncture in Medicine (2026). PMID: 41964134