On receiving
Shipments arrive in protective, tamper-evident packaging. On arrival, confirm the contents against the packing list and move vials to cold storage promptly.
- Inspect for damaged or compromised vials before storing.
- Match each vial’s lot code to its certificate of analysis.
- Brief warming to ambient during transit does not compromise lyophilized material, but prolonged exposure should be avoided.
Storage temperatures
Store lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptides sealed and desiccated.
| State | Recommended | Typical window |
|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized, long-term | −20°C | months–years |
| Lyophilized, short-term | 2–8°C | weeks |
| Reconstituted (in solution) | 2–8°C | days |
| Reconstituted, extended | −20°C aliquots | per stability data |
Repeated freeze–thaw cycles. Aliquot reconstituted material so each working volume is thawed once.
Reconstitution
Reconstitution solvent depends on the peptide’s sequence and intended assay. Bacteriostatic or sterile water is common for many soluble peptides; some require a small fraction of acetic acid, ammonium bicarbonate, or DMSO for initial dissolution.
- Add solvent slowly down the vial wall; do not inject directly onto the powder.
- Swirl gently — do not vortex aggressively or sonicate unless required.
- Allow the powder to dissolve fully before dilution into assay buffer.
Refer to peptide-specific solubility before selecting a solvent.
Stability & shelf life
Each lot carries an assay date and a retest/expiry date on its certificate of analysis. Lyophilized material stored at −20°C and kept desiccated is the most stable form; reconstituted solutions are far more labile and should be used per their own stability data.
Handling & safety
Treat all materials as laboratory chemicals. Use appropriate PPE — gloves, eye protection, and a lab coat — and handle in a manner consistent with your institution’s safety protocols.
- Avoid inhalation of fine lyophilized powder; open vials carefully.
- Keep away from food preparation and consumption areas.
- Consult the applicable safety data sheet for the specific material.
Disposal
Dispose of unused material, solutions, and contaminated consumables in accordance with your institution’s chemical-waste procedures and all applicable local regulations.