Scientific Profile: Immunoregulatory Research Peptide
Introduction to the Neuro-Immune Axis
The nervous and immune systems are intimately linked, forming the neuro-immune axis. Neuropeptides, such as the Immunoregulatory Research Peptide (VIP), are essential signaling molecules that allow for cross-talk between these two systems. This peptide is increasingly recognized as a primary tool for researching this complex interaction, particularly its profound ability to modulate immune responses.
Product Focus: Th1/Th2 Shift and Cytokine Regulation
The balance between T helper 1 (Th1) and T helper 2 (Th2) cells is crucial for a healthy immune response. A Th1-dominant response is typically pro-inflammatory, mediating cellular immunity often associated with autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation. Conversely, a Th2-dominant response is generally anti-inflammatory, mediating humoral immunity and tolerance. The Immunoregulatory Research Peptide offers a mechanism to actively steer this balance.
Mechanism of Action: The Th1 to Th2 Shift
The core function of this peptide lies in its ability to shift the immune response from a pro-inflammatory Th1 profile to an anti-inflammatory Th2 profile. This is achieved by influencing the differentiation and function of T helper cells.
Immune Profile
Associated Cytokines
Key Characteristics
Implication in Disease
Th1 (Pro-inflammatory)
IFN-γ, IL-2, TNF-α
Cellular immunity, Macrophage activation
Autoimmunity, Chronic inflammation
Th2 (Anti-inflammatory)
IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13
Humoral immunity, Antibody production
Allergy, Immune tolerance
Cytokine Modulation
One of the most significant aspects of the peptide's immunoregulatory function is its powerful impact on key cytokines:
- Stimulation of Interleukin-10 (IL-10): The peptide strongly stimulates the production of Interleukin-10 (IL-10). IL-10 is recognized as a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine that inhibits the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suppresses T cell proliferation, and modulates antigen-presenting cell function. This makes the peptide a critical subject in research focusing on immune tolerance.
- Suppression of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α): The peptide is actively investigated for its ability to suppress the release and activity of pro-inflammatory mediators, particularly Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α). Suppression of TNF-α is a major therapeutic strategy in managing systemic inflammation associated with various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
The following is a diagram illustrating the peptide's influence on the Th1/Th2 balance:
Research Applications
The unique scientific profile of the Immunoregulatory Research Peptide makes it an ideal reagent for various advanced immunological and neuroscientific research fields.
Ideal For:
- Immunology Assays: Used to study T cell differentiation, proliferation, and activation in controlled in vitro environments.
- Autoimmune Disease Models: Investigated for its potential to manage systemic inflammation and suppress pathogenic Th1-mediated responses in models such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Cytokine Profiling: Serves as a standard modulator when mapping the complex network of cytokine interactions influenced by neuropeptides.
Status
Experimental Reagent: This product is intended for in vitro laboratory use and research purposes only. It is not approved for human or animal therapeutic use.
Related Research Methods and Protocols
Researchers utilizing this peptide often rely on standardized protocols for best results. The following resources provide detailed methodologies for common applications:
Protocol
Description
Purpose
T Cell Proliferation Assay
Detailed steps for isolating T cells and measuring the peptide's effect on proliferation rates.
Assessing immune suppressive capacity
Cytokine ELISA Protocol
Methodology for quantifying IL-10, TNF-α, and IFN-γ levels in supernatant.
Cytokine profiling and mechanism verification
Autoimmune Model Injection Guide
Standardized procedures for in vivo administration in experimental disease models.
Investigating anti-inflammatory effects in vivo
Researchers are encouraged to consult the corresponding technical guides for each application:
- T Cell Proliferation Assay Guide: File
- Cytokine ELISA Protocol: File
Future Directions in Research
The peptide's role at the intersection of the nervous and immune systems presents exciting avenues for future research, including:
- Receptor Subtype Mapping: Further elucidation of the specific VIP receptor subtypes (VPAC1 and VPAC2) responsible for the Th1/Th2 shift.
- Drug Delivery Systems: Research into novel delivery vehicles to enhance bioavailability and target specific immune tissues, such as Place.
- Chronic Pain and Inflammation: Exploring its use in models of chronic pain that have a significant inflammatory component.
The next research symposium on the neuro-immune axis is scheduled for Date at Place. This event will feature presentations on the latest findings regarding the Immunoregulatory Research Peptide and its analogues. Interested parties can find the symposium details here: Calendar event.
Please contact Person for advanced technical support or bulk orders.