Peptide Handling Guide

Innovative Research Labs

Version 2.1 • Last Updated: January 2026

1. Introduction
2. Storage Requirements
3. Reconstitution Guide
4. Handling Best Practices
5. Stability & Shelf Life
6. Troubleshooting
7. Safety Guidelines

1Introduction

This guide provides comprehensive instructions for the proper handling, storage, and reconstitution of research peptides supplied by Innovative Research Labs. Following these guidelines will help ensure optimal stability and consistency of your research materials.

Important: All products are intended for research and laboratory use only. Not for human or veterinary use.

2Storage Requirements

Lyophilized (Powder)

• Store at -20°C or below
• Protect from light
• Keep in original sealed vial
• Stable for 24+ months

Reconstituted Solution

• Store at 2-8°C (refrigerator)
• Use within 4-6 weeks
• Aliquot to avoid freeze-thaw
• Keep protected from light

Warning: Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. If long-term storage is required, aliquot the reconstituted solution and store at -20°C.

3Reconstitution Guide

Recommended Solvents

Solvent	Use Case	Notes
Bacteriostatic Water	Most peptides	Preferred for multi-use vials
Sterile Water	Single-use applications	Use immediately
0.9% Saline	Physiological studies	Isotonic solution
Acetic Acid (0.1%)	Basic/hydrophobic peptides	Improves solubility

Step-by-Step Reconstitution

1Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening (15-20 minutes)
2Wipe the vial stopper with an alcohol swab and allow to dry
3Using a sterile syringe, slowly inject the solvent along the inside wall of the vial
4Gently swirl the vial—do not shake vigorously as this may cause peptide degradation
5Allow the peptide to fully dissolve (may take 5-10 minutes for some peptides)
6If the solution is cloudy, let it sit at room temperature or gently warm to 37°C
7Once clear, the solution is ready for use

4Handling Best Practices

Use Sterile Technique

Always use sterile syringes, needles, and work in a clean environment to prevent contamination.

Minimize Air Exposure

Peptides can oxidize when exposed to air. Work quickly and keep vials sealed when not in use.

Avoid Cross-Contamination

Use a new sterile needle/syringe for each peptide to prevent cross-contamination between compounds.

Document Everything

Keep detailed records of reconstitution dates, concentrations, and storage conditions for each vial.

Use Appropriate Containers

Store reconstituted solutions in low-binding tubes to minimize peptide adsorption to surfaces.

5Stability & Shelf Life

Expected Shelf Life

• Lyophilized powder at -20°C: 24-36 months
• Lyophilized powder at 2-8°C: 6-12 months
• Reconstituted at 2-8°C: 4-6 weeks
• Reconstituted at -20°C: 3-6 months (avoid freeze-thaw)

Stability can vary by peptide sequence. Peptides containing methionine, cysteine, or tryptophan may be more susceptible to oxidation. Refer to the product-specific documentation for detailed stability information.

6Troubleshooting

Peptide won't dissolve

Try a different solvent (e.g., 0.1% acetic acid for basic peptides). Gently warm to 37°C. Allow more time for dissolution (up to 30 minutes for some peptides).

Solution appears cloudy

This may indicate incomplete dissolution or aggregation. Try gentle warming or a different solvent. Do not use if cloudiness persists—contact support.

Reduced activity over time

Check storage conditions. Ensure minimal freeze-thaw cycles. Consider making fresh aliquots. Review handling procedures for potential contamination sources.

7Safety Guidelines

⚠️ Research Use Only

All peptides are sold strictly for research purposes. Not intended for human consumption, veterinary use, or any diagnostic applications.

Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, lab coat, eye protection)
Work in a well-ventilated area or fume hood when handling powders
Dispose of materials according to your institution's guidelines
Keep detailed records for safety and compliance purposes