Why lyophilization matters
Freeze-drying removes water from a peptide solution under vacuum, leaving a stable powder "cake" in the vial. In this state hydrolysis, oxidation and aggregation slow dramatically, which is why sealed lyophilized vials keep their identity and purity for months when handled correctly.
Sealed vials (before reconstitution)
| Short term (up to 30 days) | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C, protected from light |
|---|---|
| Long term | Freeze at −20 °C; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles |
| Transit | Brief room-temperature exposure during shipping does not compromise a sealed lyophilized vial |
| Light | Keep in the original carton or an opaque container |
Reconstitution
- Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening to avoid condensation.
- Swab the stopper and inject the diluent (bacteriostatic water, or 0.6% acetic acid for peptides with poor solubility in water) slowly down the side of the vial.
- Do not shake. Roll or swirl gently until the cake dissolves completely.
- Label the vial with the date and the concentration — use the Reconstitution Calculator.
Reconstituted vials
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2–8 °C immediately; keep upright and protected from light |
|---|---|
| Stability window | Bacteriostatic water preserves most peptides for 2–4 weeks refrigerated; confirm with your laboratory protocol |
| Freezing | Not recommended once reconstituted — ice crystals can damage peptide structure |
| Signs of degradation | Cloudiness, particulates or colour change — discard and reconstitute a fresh vial |
Research liquids and powders
Pre-mixed research solutions should be stored sealed, cool (below 25 °C) and away from direct light. Powders should be kept sealed in a dry environment with the desiccant provided. Reseal immediately after each use.
Handling notes
- Always confirm the measured vial content on the batch Certificate of Analysis before calculating concentrations.
- Use sterile technique and single-use syringes to avoid contaminating the stopper.
- Record lot, reconstitution date and concentration on every vial.