What Are Peptides?
Short chains of amino acids that researchers study for their potential effects on biological processes. Unlike proteins, peptides typically contain 2–50 amino acids.
Education Center
Research peptides, explained simply.
Everything you need to know about research peptides — from basic terminology to proper handling and storage. Written for qualified researchers.
Quick Guides
Essential Knowledge for Researchers
Reconstitution Guide
Lyophilized peptide powders must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water before use in research. Learn the proper technique for accurate dosing.
Read guide →Storage & Handling
Unreconstituted peptides should be stored at -20°C. After reconstitution, keep at 2–8°C and use within the timeframe specified in your research protocol.
Read guide →Understanding Purity
HPLC and mass spectrometry testing verify peptide identity and purity. ≥99% purity is the gold standard for research applications requiring consistent results.
Research Terminology
Lyophilized, reconstitution, bacteriostatic water, amino acid sequence, agonist, antagonist — understand the language of peptide research.
View glossary →Safety First
Always wear appropriate PPE. Work in a clean environment. Follow your institution's biosafety protocols. These products are for research only — not for human or veterinary use.
Step-by-Step
How to Reconstitute Peptides
A step-by-step guide for researchers
1
Gather materials
Bacteriostatic water, alcohol swabs, insulin syringe, and your lyophilized peptide vial.
2
Clean the vial tops
Wipe both the bacteriostatic water vial and peptide vial with an alcohol swab.
3
Draw bacteriostatic water
Use an insulin syringe to draw the desired amount (typically 1–2 mL).
4
Inject into peptide vial
Slowly inject the water down the side of the vial, not directly onto the powder.
5
Do not shake
Gently swirl or let sit until fully dissolved. Never shake vigorously.
6
Label and store
Mark the date and store reconstituted peptides at 2–8°C.
Best Practices
Proper Storage Guidelines
Unreconstituted (Lyophilized)
- Store at -20°C (freezer)
- Protect from light and moisture
- Stable for 12–24 months when stored properly
Reconstituted
- Store at 2–8°C (refrigerator)
- Use within 30 days typically
- Do not freeze reconstituted peptides
Important: Always consult your research protocol for specific storage requirements. Different peptides may have unique stability profiles.
Reference
Research Peptide Terminology
- Amino Acid
- The building blocks of peptides and proteins.
- Lyophilized
- Freeze-dried powder form — how peptides are typically shipped.
- Reconstitution
- The process of adding liquid to lyophilized powder.
- Bacteriostatic Water
- Water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol to prevent bacterial growth.
- HPLC
- High-Performance Liquid Chromatography — purity testing method.
- Mass Spectrometry
- Technique to verify molecular weight and identity.
- Agonist
- A substance that initiates a physiological response.
- Antagonist
- A substance that interferes with or inhibits a physiological response.
- Sequence
- The specific order of amino acids in a peptide.
- Purity
- Percentage of the target peptide vs. impurities.
Ready to start your research?
Browse our catalog of high-purity research peptides.
For research use only — not for human consumption.