Peptide Types and Storage

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that serve crucial functions in biological research, drug development, and cellular signalling studies. At BioPlex Peptides, we provide premium-grade research peptides for laboratory use across the UK, where correct classification and storage are essential to maintain their quality and ensure consistent, reliable results.

Below you'll find a detailed overview of peptide types, along with best-practice storage guidelines to help safeguard the integrity of your research materials.

 

 

 

 

 

Storage Guidelines for Peptides

Proper storage is crucial to maintain the stability, bioactivity, and reliability of your research peptides. Here are the essential recommendations:

 

Keep Peptides Dry

Lyophilized peptides are highly hygroscopic and rapidly degrade if exposed to moisture. Always handle in a low-humidity environment.

Limit Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Repeatedly freezing and thawing peptides can lead to denaturation. Wherever possible, aliquot peptides into single-use vials to prevent this.

Use Sterile Techniques

Reconstitute peptides with sterile, pH-appropriate solvents and equipment to prevent microbial contamination.

Protect from Light

Certain peptides, especially those with complex modifications, are sensitive to light and should be stored in amber vials or wrapped in foil.

Careful Labelling

Clearly mark all containers with the peptide name, concentration, reconstitution date, and recommended storage conditions.

 

Lyophilized Peptides

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Long-Term Storage

Store peptides between −20°C and −80°C to minimize degradation and preserve molecular stability over time.

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Before Use

Allow the vial to reach room between 15-20°C before reconstituting, cold vials can cause condensation and moisture exposure.

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Avoid Humidity

Only reconstitute vials only in dry sterile environments. Moisture-sensitive compounds require strict humidity control.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconstituted Peptides

Once reconstituted, peptides become more susceptible to degradation. The choice of solvent affects stability.

In Water or Buffer

  • Always use sterile, pH-adjusted water or phosphate-buffered saline when reconstituting peptides.
  • Store reconstituted peptides at 2°C to 8°C and use within 1–12 weeks, depending on the specific peptide and solvent.
  • Only refreeze if the solution has been aliquoted into single-use portions immediately after reconstitution to avoid degradation.

In DMSO

  • DMSO is suitable for hydrophobic peptides or those requiring organic solvents.
  • Store these solutions at minus 20°C and ensure they are protected from light.
  • Use within 1–12 weeks and always aliquot to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can compromise peptide stability.

 

 

 

 

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Aliquoting Tips

Aliquoting peptides is essential to maintain their integrity over time.

  • Reconstitute the peptide in a sterile solvent appropriate for your research needs.
  • Divide the solution into single-use aliquots, typically 50–100 µL.
  • Clearly label each aliquot with its concentration and the date of preparation.
  • Freeze aliquots immediately and do not thaw until ready to use.

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Handling and Safety

Handling peptides safely is just as important as correct storage of peptides.

  • Wear gloves and a lab coat to avoid skin contact and unwanted contamination.
  • Use a biosafety cabinet when preparing or aliquoting peptides to maintain sterility.
  • Dispose of peptides and associated materials responsibly in accordance with your institution's chemical waste protocols.
  • Avoid inhalation and direct pipetting by mouth; always use mechanical pipettors for safety.

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Stability Considerations

Peptide stability is influenced by various sequence, structural, and environmental factors.

  • Sequence Length: Longer peptides may be more liable to degradation.
  • Hydrophobicity: Hydrophobic peptides can precipitate out of aqueous solutions.
  • Charge and pH: Maintaining a neutral pH helps protect peptide structure; avoid extremes.
  • Temperature Sensitivity: Some peptides degrade quickly at room temperature, underscoring the need for proper refrigeration or freezing.

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Tips After Aliquoting

Maintain research consistency through careful aliquot labeling and temperature control.

  • After reconstitution, divide peptides into small, single-use volumes (such as 50–100 µL).
  • Label each aliquot with the peptide's details and freeze immediately.
  • Retrieve only the volume needed per experiment to prevent unnecessary thawing.
  • Minimize freeze–thaw cycles by storing aliquots in low-binding tubes and keeping backup vials untouched until needed.