Dr. Emily Roberts5 min read
Why Storage Matters
Peptides are delicate molecules susceptible to degradation from heat, moisture, light, and oxidation. Proper storage can mean the difference between successful and failed experiments.
Lyophilized (Powder) Storage
Short-term (< 3 months) Store at 2-8°C (standard refrigerator). Keep in original sealed vial with desiccant.
Long-term (> 3 months) Store at -20°C or colder. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles -aliquot if needed.
Critical Considerations - Keep away from moisture - Protect from light - Maintain a consistent temperature - Do not open until ready to reconstitute
Reconstituted Peptide Storage
- Always store at 2-8°C
- Use within 21-30 days
- Never refreeze reconstituted solutions
- Use bacteriostatic water (not sterile water) for longer shelf life
Signs of Degradation
Watch for these indicators that a peptide may have degraded: 1. Change in appearance (cloudiness, color change) 2. Difficulty dissolving 3. Unexpected results in assays 4. Unusual odor
Shipping Considerations
Lyophilized peptides are stable at room temperature during transit. Reconstituted peptides should be stored at 2-8°C and used within 30 days.