Looking for Advice on the Best Methods for Storing and Handling Peptides

[Andro_12]

Hello Everyone,

I've only lately begun using peptides in my study, so I'm not that experienced with them. I've discovered a lot of generic information online, but I would really like any advice from the community on how to handle and store peptides in a way that preserves their stability and effectiveness.

In particular, I have the following queries:

Conditions of Storage: What are the best ways to store peptides—in powder and solution form—for future use? I've read that some peptides need to be frozen, while others are stable at room temperature. Do I need to store them at -20°C all the time, or are there some circumstances in which room temperature storage is adequate?

Managing Procedures: Should I take any safety measures when reconstituting peptides? While using sterile, distilled water or certain buffers has been recommended, I'm not sure if this is true for all peptides or just some of them. What possible dangers should one be aware of when making peptide solutions?

Shelf Life: How long can peptides be functional in a solution, and how can I determine whether they've broken down? I would also welcome any advice on how to keep peptide solutions fresher longer.

Transporting Peptides: Are there any particular recommendations for keeping peptides stable throughout snowflake shipment, particularly in situations where temperature control can be problematic?

Thank you in advance for your help and support.

 

[tetulas]

Depending on the kind of peptides, you can try to freeze-dry it (lyophilization process). Choosing that way you will remove the solvent to prevent it from reacting with the air (causing the degradation process, for example) or even to self react. After doing the process, you will need to keep it dry, using silica gel or putting it in vacuum storage. NOTE: You need to know if its properties allow this kind of process.

 

[Feliz Phillip]

To store and handle peptides effectively:

1. Storage Temperature:
   • Lyophilized peptides: Store at -20°C to -80°C.
   • Reconstituted peptides: Store at 4°C for short-term or -20°C/-80°C for long-term in aliquots.
2. Avoid Degradation:
   • Keep peptides in dark vials to prevent light exposure.
   • For cysteine-containing peptides, store under inert conditions or use antioxidants to prevent oxidation.
3. pH and Solvent:
   • Reconstitute in sterile water or PBS.
   • Maintain a pH range of 4-7 to avoid degradation.
4. Aliquoting:
   • Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by storing peptides in small aliquots.
5. Handling:
   • Use sterile techniques (gloves, sterile syringes).
   • For small volumes, use positive displacement pipettes.
6. Shipping:
   • Ship lyophilized peptides on dry ice to maintain stability.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure your peptides stay stable and effective!