Research Peptide Storage and Handling Guide

Proper storage keeps research peptides stable and your data reliable. Requirements differ for lyophilized (powder) and reconstituted (liquid) peptides. For laboratory research use only.

Lyophilized (powder) peptides

• Short term (days–weeks): a cool, dark place at room temperature is generally acceptable.
• Long term (months): refrigerate at 2–8 °C, or freeze at −20 °C for extended storage.
• Keep vials sealed, away from light and moisture.

Reconstituted (liquid) peptides

• Store refrigerated at 2–8 °C.
• Use within the validated window for your compound; reconstituted peptides are less stable than the lyophilized form.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles — each cycle can degrade the peptide.

Why storage matters

Peptide degradation is driven mainly by hydrolysis, oxidation of sensitive residues (such as methionine and cysteine), moisture, and light. Keeping material cold, dry, and dark slows these pathways and preserves purity for research.

General handling tips

• Minimize light and heat exposure during handling.
• Swirl rather than shake when mixing.
• Label vials with the reconstitution date.

Related

Learn how to reconstitute a research peptide, or browse the research peptide catalog.

References

1. Hoofnagle AN, et al. Recommendations for the generation, quantification, storage, and handling of peptides. PMC, 2016.
2. Handling and Storage Guidelines for Peptides and Proteins — Sigma-Aldrich.

For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.