Glossary
Essential terms and definitions for peptide research
Peptide
A short chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. Peptides are distinguished from proteins by their size, typically containing fewer than 50 amino acids.
HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
An analytical technique used to separate, identify, and quantify components in a mixture. In peptide manufacturing, HPLC is used to verify purity.
Mass Spectrometry (MS)
An analytical technique that measures the mass-to-charge ratio of molecules. Used to confirm the molecular weight and identity of peptides.
Lyophilization
A freeze-drying process that removes water from a product after it is frozen. This process extends the shelf life of peptides and makes them easier to store and transport.
Reconstitution
The process of adding a liquid (typically bacteriostatic water) to a lyophilized peptide to return it to a liquid state for research use.
Bacteriostatic Water
Sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol that inhibits bacterial growth. Used for reconstituting lyophilized peptides.
cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice)
Regulations enforced by the FDA to ensure products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards.
COA (Certificate of Analysis)
A document issued by quality assurance that confirms a product meets its product specification. It includes test results and purity data.
Purity
The percentage of the target peptide in a sample compared to impurities. Research-grade peptides typically have >95% or >99% purity.
Molecular Weight
The mass of one molecule of a substance, expressed in atomic mass units (amu) or daltons (Da). Important for peptide identification.
Amino Acid
Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of peptides and proteins. There are 20 standard amino acids used in biological systems.
Peptide Bond
A covalent chemical bond formed between two amino acid molecules when the carboxyl group of one reacts with the amino group of another.
Synthesis
The process of creating peptides by joining amino acids together in a specific sequence. Can be done through solid-phase or liquid-phase methods.
Storage Temperature
The recommended temperature for storing peptides. Lyophilized peptides should typically be stored at -20°C or below; reconstituted peptides at 2-8°C.
Research Grade
Peptides manufactured to high purity standards specifically for laboratory research purposes, not for human or animal consumption.
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Email: info@pegasus-peptides.com