Everything you need to know about mixing and storing peptides
To achieve the best outcomes, it's crucial to understand the ins and outs of peptide storage and reconstitution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential tips for maintaining peptides' highest quality and structural integrity.
Proper storage is vital for maintaining the stability and integrity of peptides. Peptides in their lyophilised (freeze-dried) form are safe for transport as they are protected from UV light and remain stable in a freeze-dried state. However, we recommend refrigerating them as soon as possible upon arrival to ensure proper storage and extend their longevity.
At InstaPep, we take storage seriously. We maintain peptides in a controlled environment with a temperature-controlled walk-in freezer and three medical fridges, all closely monitored for optimal temperature stability.
Store at -20°C for up to 48 months
Refrigerate at 2–8°C upon arrival
Below is a table summarising ideal storage durations for different types of peptides:
| Type of Peptide | Lyophilised Storage | Reconstituted Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Peptides | Up to 48 months at -20°C | 2–8 weeks at 2–8°C |
| Acidic Peptides | Up to 48 months at -20°C | 2–8 weeks at 2–8°C |
| Neutral Peptides | Up to 48 months at -20°C | 2–8 weeks at 2–8°C |
| Hydrophobic Peptides | Up to 48 months at -20°C | 2–8 weeks at 2–8°C |
| Hydrophilic Peptides | Up to 48 months at -20°C | 2–8 weeks at 2–8°C |
Peptides are typically supplied in lyophilised powder form, requiring reconstitution. For best results, allow both the peptide vial and the mixing solution (e.g., bacteriostatic water) to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps avoid issues like cloudiness that may occur when cold solutions are combined.
When reconstituting, it's essential to equalise the pressure in the vial. Due to the drying process, some vials may have a vacuum, while others could have positive pressure. To balance this, insert a sterile needle that's half-filled with air into the vial's rubber stopper. The vial will either draw in or release air, stabilising the pressure. This prevents solution loss once it's added, as excess pressure may cause solution loss through the stopper.
Bacteriostatic water is commonly used for reconstitution, although some peptides may require acetic acid for complete dissolution. For hydrophobic peptides, a 50% aqueous acetic acid solution can be helpful. Create a stock solution at a higher concentration than necessary, allowing for later dilution with the assay buffer.
Mixing: Gently swirl the vial until the peptide is fully dissolved. Avoid vigorous shaking, as this can damage the peptide structure.
Adding too much solution can fragment and break down peptides. Use between 1 to 2.5 ml of solution for reconstitution unless specific studies confirm that a higher volume is safe. Excessive dilution can compromise peptide integrity, potentially reducing peptide integrity.
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Understanding proper peptide storage and reconstitution techniques is essential for preserving their quality, stability, and structural integrity. By following the guidelines in this guide, you'll be well-prepared to handle peptides in your research with confidence and precision.