Storage & Handling Guide
Proper storage and handling preserves compound integrity throughout its research lifecycle.
Lyophilized Compound Storage
All OPSEK Labs research compounds are supplied in lyophilized (freeze-dried) form unless otherwise specified. Lyophilization removes moisture under vacuum, producing a stable powder that retains biological activity when stored correctly.
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Long-term storage | -20°C (standard freezer) |
| Short-term storage (sealed) | 4°C for up to 2 weeks |
| Light exposure | Protect from direct light |
| Humidity | Keep sealed; avoid repeated exposure to ambient air |
| Freeze-thaw cycles (sealed) | Minimize; stable for multiple cycles when sealed |
Lyophilized peptides stored at -20°C are typically stable for 24–36 months. Refer to the individual product page for compound-specific shelf life information.
Reconstitution
Reconstitution converts lyophilized powder into a solution suitable for research use. The standard diluent for most research peptides is Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol in sterile water for injection).
General reconstitution principles:
- Allow sealed vials to come to room temperature before opening to minimize condensation inside the vial.
- Inject diluent slowly along the inside wall of the vial — do not inject directly onto the powder.
- Gently swirl or roll the vial to dissolve. Do not shake vigorously, as this can denature the peptide.
- Allow sufficient time for complete dissolution before use. Some compounds may require 5–15 minutes.
- If the solution appears cloudy after complete mixing, do not use. Contact support@opseklabs.com.
Specific reconstitution volumes and protocols are described in the peer-reviewed literature for each compound. OPSEK Labs does not provide reconstitution protocols for research use.
Reconstituted Compound Storage
After reconstitution, peptide solutions are considerably less stable than lyophilized powder. Proper storage is critical.
| Condition | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Short-term storage | 2–8°C (refrigerated), typically 7–28 days |
| Long-term storage | -20°C in aliquots |
| Freeze-thaw cycles (solution) | Avoid; aliquot before freezing if possible |
| Container | Original vial or sterile low-bind container |
Reconstituted compound shelf life varies by peptide. See individual product pages for compound-specific guidance. When in doubt, aliquot and freeze.
Shipping & Transit
OPSEK Labs ships all compounds with ice packs and insulated thermal packaging to maintain cold-chain conditions during transit. Standard domestic transit times of 2–5 days are within safe temperature ranges for lyophilized compounds when packaged correctly.
Upon receipt, immediately transfer compounds to -20°C storage. Do not leave compounds at room temperature for extended periods after delivery.
If a shipment appears to have experienced significant heat exposure during transit (e.g., packaging is warm with no remaining coolant), document the condition and contact support@opseklabs.com before opening the vials.
Handling Precautions
- These compounds are for laboratory research use only. Handle in accordance with your institution's research protocols and applicable regulations.
- Use appropriate PPE as required by your research setting.
- Compounds should not be handled, reconstituted, or used outside of a controlled research environment by qualified personnel.
- Dispose of research compounds and materials in accordance with applicable laboratory waste disposal regulations.