Neuroendocrine
Half-life: ~1-2 minutes in plasma (extremely short; nasal spray provides local and systemic effects)
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP)
VIP is one of the body's most versatile signaling molecules. Originally discovered in the gut (hence 'intestinal'), it's now known to be produced throughout the body—in neurons, immune cells, and the gut nervous system. This 28-amino acid peptide acts as a neurotransmitter, immune modulator, and hormone all at once. VIP relaxes smooth muscle (lowering blood pressure, dilating airways), regulates circadian rhythms, modulates immune responses, and protects neurons. It binds to VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors found on almost every cell type, triggering anti-inflammatory cascades. Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker brought VIP into the spotlight for treating Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)—the constellation of symptoms associated with mold and biotoxin exposure. In his protocol, VIP nasal spray is used after initial detoxification to recalibrate the dysregulated immune system. Beyond CIRS, VIP is being researched for pulmonary hypertension, neuroprotection, autoimmune conditions, and even COVID-19-related inflammation. It represents an endogenous anti-inflammatory tool that medicine is only beginning to harness.
Table of Contents
What is VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)?
VIP is one of the body's most versatile signaling molecules. Originally discovered in the gut (hence 'intestinal'), it's now known to be produced throughout the body—in neurons, immune cells, and the gut nervous system. This 28-amino acid peptide acts as a neurotransmitter, immune modulator, and hormone all at once. VIP relaxes smooth muscle (lowering blood pressure, dilating airways), regulates circadian rhythms, modulates immune responses, and protects neurons. It binds to VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors found on almost every cell type, triggering anti-inflammatory cascades. Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker brought VIP into the spotlight for treating Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)—the constellation of symptoms associated with mold and biotoxin exposure. In his protocol, VIP nasal spray is used after initial detoxification to recalibrate the dysregulated immune system. Beyond CIRS, VIP is being researched for pulmonary hypertension, neuroprotection, autoimmune conditions, and even COVID-19-related inflammation. It represents an endogenous anti-inflammatory tool that medicine is only beginning to harness.
Research Benefits
Potent anti-inflammatory effects
Regulates immune system responses
Dilates blood vessels (reduces pulmonary hypertension)
Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle
Neuroprotective properties
Helps regulate circadian rhythms
May improve symptoms in CIRS/mold illness
Protects intestinal barrier function
Research Applications
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)
Active research area with published studies
Mold-related illness
Active research area with published studies
Pulmonary arterial hypertension
Active research area with published studies
Neurodegenerative diseases
Active research area with published studies
Autoimmune conditions
Active research area with published studies
Inflammatory bowel disease
Active research area with published studies
Post-COVID syndrome
Active research area with published studies
Sepsis and systemic inflammation
Active research area with published studies