Reconstitution & Storage of Research Peptides
Best practices for storing lyophilized peptides and preparing research solutions, so your reference material stays stable.
Peptides are sensitive molecules, and careful handling preserves their integrity for research. This overview describes standard laboratory practice for storing and reconstituting lyophilized research peptides. It is general reference information for laboratory use only and is not guidance for human use.
Storing lyophilized peptides
In their freeze-dried (lyophilized) form, peptides are relatively stable. For short periods they tolerate room temperature, which is why they ship without cold-chain requirements. For longer storage, keep vials sealed, away from light and moisture, and refrigerated or frozen - a freezer around -20 degrees C is ideal for extended storage of lyophilized material.
Reconstitution basics
For research applications, lyophilized peptides are typically reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, which contains a small amount of benzyl alcohol to inhibit microbial growth in multi-use research preparations. The solvent is added slowly down the side of the vial rather than directly onto the powder, and the vial is gently swirled - not shaken - until dissolved.
After reconstitution
Once in solution, peptides are far less stable than in lyophilized form and should be refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C. Most reconstituted research peptides are used within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the compound. Avoid repeated temperature cycling, and protect solutions from light.
Shelf life at a glance
- Lyophilized, frozen: longest stability (months and beyond)
- Lyophilized, refrigerated: stable for extended periods
- Reconstituted, refrigerated: typically used within ~2-3 months for most compounds
You will need bacteriostatic water and standard lab consumables for reconstitution. Browse the catalogue for research peptides shipped from Quebec for laboratory research use only.
For research and laboratory use only. Not for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or cure of any condition. This article is general reference information and not medical advice.