Peptide Storage Guide
Proper storage protocols for maintaining peptide integrity from delivery through experimentation.
Temperature Requirements
| Form | Temperature | Typical Stability |
|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized powder | -20°C (freezer) | 2+ years |
| Lyophilized powder | 2-8°C (refrigerator) | 6-12 months |
| Reconstituted solution | 2-8°C (refrigerator) | 2-4 weeks |
| Reconstituted solution | -20°C (frozen) | 3-6 months |
Lyophilized Powder Storage
Lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptides offer maximum stability because water — the primary driver of chemical degradation — has been removed. Follow these rules:
- Store at -20°C for long-term preservation (2+ years)
- Keep vials sealed until ready for reconstitution
- Protect from light — UV radiation degrades peptide bonds
- Avoid humidity — lyophilized powders are hygroscopic and absorb moisture from air
- Only open vials in low-humidity environments
Reconstituted Solution Storage
Once reconstituted in an appropriate research-grade solvent, peptide stability decreases significantly. The addition of water enables hydrolysis and microbial growth.
- Use appropriate research-grade sterile solvents per your institutional protocol
- Store refrigerated at 2-8°C and use within 2-4 weeks
- Aliquot into single-use vials to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Do not shake vigorously — causes aggregation and denaturation
- Store in dark, airtight containers
Common Storage Mistakes
Room temperature storage
Even short-term room temperature exposure accelerates degradation. Always refrigerate or freeze.
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Each cycle causes aggregation. Aliquot into single-use portions before freezing.
Exposure to air
Oxygen degrades sulfur-containing peptides (oxidation). Minimize headspace in vials.
Wrong pH buffer
Extreme pH accelerates hydrolysis. Use recommended buffers for your specific peptide.
Using plain water
Research-grade solvents with antimicrobial preservatives are recommended for reconstitution. Plain sterile water does not prevent microbial growth.
Stability Warning Signs
Discard any peptide solution that shows these signs of degradation:
Cloudiness or precipitation in solution
Color change (yellowing or browning)
Visible particulate matter
Loss of characteristic solubility
Unusual odor