The basics
Peptides are short chains of amino acids joined by peptide bonds. Most research peptides contain somewhere between two and fifty amino acids. Longer chains that fold into complex three-dimensional structures are usually described as proteins.
Because the order of amino acids defines a peptide, small changes in sequence can produce materials with very different properties. That is why exact identification matters in a lab setting.
How research peptides are made
Most research peptides are produced by solid-phase peptide synthesis. Amino acids are added one at a time to a growing chain anchored to a resin, then the finished chain is cleaved, purified and freeze-dried into a stable powder.
Freeze-drying, or lyophilisation, removes water so the material can be stored and shipped in a sealed vial.
Confirming identity and purity
Two analytical methods are commonly reported on a Certificate of Analysis:
- HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) separates the sample to show how much of it is the target peptide. This is reported as a purity percentage.
- Mass spectrometry measures molecular mass to confirm the material is the expected sequence.
Every MAS lot has a Certificate of Analysis available on request, so you can match the vial in your lab to its documentation.
Storage and handling
Lyophilised peptides are generally kept sealed, dry, away from light and at the temperature stated on the product documentation. Handle materials in line with your laboratory’s own procedures and the information supplied with each lot.
Ready to browse the catalog?
Every vial ships sealed and labelled, with documentation available for each lot.