Reconstituted Peptide Storage
Reconstituted peptide (in solution) must be refrigerated at 2–8°C and used within 28–30 days. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles accelerate degradation and should be avoided.
Overview
Once a lyophilized peptide is reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, the resulting solution begins to undergo slow peptide hydrolysis. Refrigeration at 2–8°C substantially slows this process, but does not stop it entirely — hence the 28–30 day guideline for BAC-water reconstituted peptides. Reconstituted peptides should be stored in the original vial (or a sterile amber glass vial to limit light exposure), always upright to prevent stopper contact with solution, and kept away from temperature extremes. Freezing a reconstituted solution is generally discouraged because ice crystal formation and concentration changes during freeze-thaw cycles can promote peptide aggregation and degradation. If storing must exceed 30 days, aliquoting the reconstituted solution into single-dose volumes and freezing immediately after preparation is practiced by some researchers.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a reconstituted peptide vial last?+
When reconstituted with bacteriostatic water and stored at 2–8°C, most research peptides remain usable for approximately 28–30 days.
Can I freeze a reconstituted peptide solution?+
It is generally not recommended. Ice crystal formation during freezing can damage peptide structure, and concentration changes during freeze-thaw can promote aggregation. Use within 30 days refrigerated instead.
What temperature is considered 'refrigerator temperature' for peptide storage?+
2–8°C (36–46°F), which is the standard pharmaceutical refrigerator temperature range. This is the same range used for storing insulin and other biologics.