Laboratory handling
How to store peptides
Practical storage advice for Australian researchers: how to keep lyophilised and reconstituted peptides stable and suitable for laboratory work.
Proper peptide storage is one of the simplest ways to protect your research materials. Whether your vials are still lyophilised or have already been reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, temperature, light, and moisture are the three factors that matter most.
Freeze lyophilised peptides for long-term storage
Unreconstituted (lyophilised) peptide powder is most stable when stored frozen at -20 °C. A standard freezer is suitable for most research peptides and protects them from degradation for months or years.
Refrigerate reconstituted peptides
Once dissolved in bacteriostatic water, peptides become less stable. Store the solution at 2–8 °C in a refrigerator and protect the vial from light. Most reconstituted solutions are consumed in laboratory work within a few weeks.
Keep peptides away from light and heat
Light and heat accelerate peptide breakdown. Store vials in their original packaging or an opaque container. Never leave vials in direct sunlight or in an uncontrolled warm environment; move them between locations in insulated packaging.
Protect from moisture and oxygen
Moisture is the enemy of lyophilised powder. Keep vial caps sealed until reconstitution and avoid repeated opening of storage containers in humid conditions. Oxygen exposure can also oxidise sensitive sequences.
Shipping and arrival in Australia
Australian summers can be hot, so reputable suppliers ship peptides with temperature-stable packaging. When your order arrives, transfer lyophilised vials to a freezer promptly. Reconstituted solutions should go straight into a refrigerator. Strand ships Australia-wide with packaging designed to protect peptide integrity in transit.
Quick reference
| Form | Storage | Typical stability |
|---|---|---|
| Lyophilised powder | -20 °C freezer, sealed, dark | Months to years |
| Reconstituted solution | 2–8 °C refrigerator, dark | A few weeks |
| Opened vial | Refrigerated, minimise exposure | Use promptly in laboratory work |
Frequently asked questions
- How do I store peptide powder before reconstitution?
- Store lyophilised peptide powder in a freezer at -20 °C, sealed, and protected from moisture and light. This is the most stable form for long-term storage.
- How do I store peptides after reconstitution?
- Reconstituted peptides should be refrigerated at 2–8 °C, kept out of direct light, and consumed in laboratory work within a few weeks. Avoid freezing the solution once it has been reconstituted.
- Can I freeze reconstituted peptides?
- Freezing reconstituted peptides is generally not recommended. Freeze-thaw cycles can cause aggregation and loss of activity. It is better to aliquot before freezing or keep the solution refrigerated.
- How long do peptides last in storage?
- Lyophilised peptides stored correctly can remain stable for years. Reconstituted solutions are usually stable for a few weeks refrigerated. Inspect solutions for cloudiness or particulates before laboratory use and discard any that show either.
Need bacteriostatic water?
Strand lists bacteriostatic water in 3 ml and 10 ml presentations — a laboratory diluent for reconstituting research peptides in the laboratory. Check the product page for current availability.