Hormone · Peptide hormone
Helodermin
A 35-amino acid peptide hormone from Gila monster venom, Helodermin is an agonist for VIP receptors (VPAC1/VPAC2) studied in metabolic and smooth muscle models.
- Length
- 35 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised in human plasma; short due to enzymatic degradation.
- Mechanism
- Helodermin is an agonist for the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) receptors VPAC1 and VPAC2, and also binds to the secretin receptor.
- Studied in
- It serves as a tool in laboratory research to investigate the function of VPAC receptors in systems like smooth muscle relaxation, insulin secretion, and immune cell regulation.
About Helodermin
Helodermin is a peptide originally isolated from the venom of the Gila monster lizard (Heloderma suspectum). It belongs to the secretin/glucagon/VIP superfamily of peptides and shares significant sequence homology with vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP).
In experimental systems, Helodermin acts as a potent agonist at both VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, and to a lesser extent, the secretin receptor. This activity allows researchers to use it as a pharmacological tool to stimulate these pathways and study downstream effects, such as cAMP production, smooth muscle relaxation in isolated tissues, and regulation of hormone secretion from cultured pancreatic islet cells.
Laboratory notes
- Reconstitute with a small amount of acid (e.g., 0.1% acetic acid) before dilution with buffer to improve solubility.
- Helodermin is subject to rapid degradation by peptidases like dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) in biological samples.
- When comparing with VIP or PACAP, consider Helodermin's distinct binding affinities and activation profiles at VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Helodermin
What family of peptides does Helodermin belong to?
Helodermin is a member of the secretin/glucagon/vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) superfamily, sharing structural similarities with these hormones.
Which receptors does Helodermin activate?
It primarily functions as an agonist for the vasoactive intestinal peptide receptors, VPAC1 and VPAC2, and also shows some activity at the secretin receptor.
What is the natural source of Helodermin?
Helodermin was first identified and isolated from the venom of the Gila monster lizard, Heloderma suspectum.
Is Helodermin for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.