Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide GPCR Family Subtypes and Products

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) receptors are a family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) comprised of three receptor subtypes: PAC1, VPAC1, and VPAC2. VIP receptors are found all throughout peripheral tissues and the brain, and are involved in a variety of biological functions, such as circadian rhythms, insulin secretion, immune response, inflammatory response, and neurodevelopment. VIP receptor agonists have shown a potential therapeutic application in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, while antagonists have potential pharmacological uses in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory diseases. The VPAC2 receptor has also been implicated in certain psychotic disorders, and has become a potential drug target.