Understanding Lyophilized Peptides

Research peptides are typically supplied in lyophilized (freeze-dried) form. This powder state provides maximum stability during storage and shipping. Before use in research, peptides must be reconstituted — dissolved in an appropriate solvent.

What You'll Need

  • Lyophilized peptide vial
  • Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
  • Sterile syringe with needle
  • Alcohol swabs
  • Clean workspace

Why Bacteriostatic Water?

Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol, which inhibits bacterial growth. This allows reconstituted peptides to be stored and used over multiple research sessions (typically up to 28 days refrigerated).

Alternative solvents like sterile water or normal saline can also be used, but they don't contain preservatives, so reconstituted solutions should be used promptly or discarded.

Step-by-Step Reconstitution

Step 1: Preparation

  • Allow peptide vial to reach room temperature
  • Clean your workspace thoroughly
  • Wash hands or wear clean gloves
  • Gather all materials before starting

Step 2: Clean the Vial Tops

  • Wipe the rubber stopper of the peptide vial with alcohol swab
  • Wipe the BAC water vial stopper as well
  • Allow alcohol to dry completely (30 seconds)

Step 3: Draw Bacteriostatic Water

  • Attach needle to syringe
  • Draw your desired amount of BAC water
  • Common volumes: 1mL, 2mL, or as specified
  • Remove any air bubbles

Step 4: Add Water to Peptide

  • Insert needle through peptide vial stopper
  • Aim the stream at the glass wall, not directly at the powder
  • Dispense water slowly, letting it run down the side
  • Do NOT shake or squirt forcefully

Step 5: Allow to Dissolve

  • Let vial sit for 1-2 minutes
  • If needed, gently swirl (don't shake)
  • Solution should become clear
  • If cloudy or particles remain, continue gentle swirling

⚠️ Important: Never Shake

Peptides are delicate molecules. Vigorous shaking can damage the peptide structure through mechanical stress and foaming. Always use gentle swirling motions if mixing is needed.

Calculating Concentration

After reconstitution, you'll want to know your peptide concentration. Here's the simple formula:

Concentration = Peptide Amount (mg) ÷ Volume Added (mL)

Example Calculations

Peptide Amount BAC Water Added Concentration
5mg 1mL 5mg/mL (5000mcg/mL)
5mg 2mL 2.5mg/mL (2500mcg/mL)
10mg 2mL 5mg/mL (5000mcg/mL)
10mg 5mL 2mg/mL (2000mcg/mL)

Storage After Reconstitution

  • Temperature: Refrigerate at 2-8°C (36-46°F)
  • Light: Keep away from direct light
  • Duration: Use within 28 days (BAC water)
  • Handling: Always use clean needles for withdrawal

Troubleshooting

Peptide won't dissolve

Some peptides are less soluble. Try:

  • Adding more solvent
  • Allowing more time at room temperature
  • Very gentle warming (not above 37°C)

Solution appears cloudy

This may indicate:

  • Incomplete dissolution — continue gentle swirling
  • Contamination — if cloudiness persists, discard
  • Precipitation — try slightly more solvent

Summary

Proper reconstitution is essential for peptide research. The key principles are: work clean, add water gently to the vial wall, never shake, and store cold. Following these practices will help maintain peptide integrity for your research applications.

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