Proper storage is critical for maintaining peptide stability, purity, and effectiveness. This comprehensive guide covers best practices for storing both lyophilized and reconstituted research peptides.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Peptides are sensitive biological molecules that can degrade when exposed to heat, light, moisture, or repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Proper storage ensures your research peptides maintain their integrity and deliver reliable, reproducible results.
Storing Lyophilized (Freeze-Dried) Peptides
Lyophilized peptides are the most stable form and can be stored for extended periods when handled correctly.
Optimal Storage Conditions
- Temperature: Store at -20°C (freezer) for long-term storage
- Short-term: Can be stored at 2-8°C (refrigerator) for up to 3-6 months
- Protection: Keep away from light and moisture
- Packaging: Store in original sealed vials until ready to use
Shelf Life
When stored properly at -20°C, most lyophilized peptides remain stable for 2-3 years. Always check the expiration date on your Certificate of Analysis (COA).
Storing Reconstituted Peptides
Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water or other solvents, peptides become more susceptible to degradation and require careful storage.
Optimal Storage Conditions
- Temperature: Store at 2-8°C (refrigerator) immediately after reconstitution
- Duration: Use within 4 weeks for optimal stability
- Protection: Keep vials upright and protected from light
- Sterility: Always use sterile technique when accessing vials
Important Guidelines
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides - Freezing can cause aggregation and loss of activity
- Avoid repeated temperature changes - Keep refrigerated consistently
- Minimize air exposure
- Use sterile syringes - Prevent bacterial contamination
Storage Do's and Don'ts
✅ DO:
- Store lyophilized peptides in the freezer (-20°C)
- Store reconstituted peptides in the refrigerator (2-8°C)
- Keep vials sealed until ready to use
- Protect from light
- Label vials with reconstitution date and concentration
- Use desiccant packets to control moisture (not directly with reconstituted vials)
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening (prevents condensation)
❌ DON'T:
- Freeze reconstituted peptides
- Expose peptides to direct sunlight or UV light
- Store near heat sources
- Leave vials at room temperature for extended periods
- Refreeze thawed lyophilized peptides
- Use peptides past their expiration date
- Store in humid environments
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can damage peptide structure. If you must freeze lyophilized peptides:
- Divide into smaller aliquots before freezing
- Only thaw what you need for immediate use
- Limit freeze-thaw cycles to a maximum of 3-4 times
- Thaw slowly in the refrigerator, not at room temperature
Signs of Peptide Degradation
Discard peptides if you notice:
- Cloudiness or discoloration in reconstituted solution
- Visible particles or precipitation
- Change in color of lyophilized powder
- Unusual odor
- Past expiration date
Storage Temperature Reference
| Peptide Form | Storage Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized (long-term) | -20°C (freezer) | 2-3 years |
| Lyophilized (short-term) | 2-8°C (refrigerator) | Up to 6 months |
| Reconstituted | 2-8°C (refrigerator) | 4 weeks |
Related Resources
Learn how to properly reconstitute your peptides for optimal results. Understand our purity standards and COA verification process.
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All Bio Peptides UK products come with detailed storage instructions and full COA documentation (online). Browse our complete range of research peptides.
All products are for research use only. Follow institutional guidelines for proper handling and storage.