Storing Lyophilised Peptides in the Laboratory
General laboratory practice for storing freeze-dried research peptides: temperature, light, moisture and handling after opening.
Why peptides are supplied freeze-dried
Lyophilisation (freeze-drying) removes water, which slows most degradation pathways. Freeze-dried peptides are therefore generally more stable for storage and transport than peptides in solution.
General storage practice
Common laboratory practice is to keep sealed vials cold, dry and protected from light, following the storage conditions stated on the label or documentation for the specific product. Avoid repeated temperature cycling.
Before opening a cold vial, allowing it to reach room temperature in a closed container reduces condensation of moisture onto the powder.
Sequence-specific sensitivities
Some residues make peptides more sensitive: methionine and cysteine can oxidise, and asparagine and glutamine can deamidate. Researchers should consult the literature for the specific sequence they are working with and record storage conditions in their lab notes.
Educational content for laboratory researchers. Products are for research use only and are not for human or veterinary use.