Reconstituting lyophilised research peptides

Research peptides are supplied as a lyophilised (freeze-dried) powder — a raw research material that must be reconstituted with a suitable diluent before it can be used in solution. They are never supplied as ready-to-use liquids.

What lyophilised means

Lyophilisation removes water under vacuum, leaving a dry, stable powder with a long shelf life when stored cold and dry. Reconstitution means returning it to solution by adding a measured volume of diluent.

What is typically involved

• A diluent — bacteriostatic water is the diluent most commonly referenced in peptide research protocols.
• Fine-graduation U-100 insulin syringes for drawing accurate small volumes.
• A refrigerator for the reconstituted solution.

General procedure

1. Allow the vial to reach room temperature and wipe the stopper.
2. Add the diluent slowly, letting it run down the inside wall of the vial rather than onto the powder.
3. Swirl gently to dissolve — do not shake.
4. Allow a few minutes for the powder to go into solution; it should be clear.
5. Label the vial with the date and refrigerate.