What "lyophilized" means
Lyophilization, or freeze-drying, removes water from a sample at low temperature under vacuum. What is left is a dry powder, often a small white cake at the bottom of the vial.
Why peptides are shipped this way
Water speeds up the breakdown of many peptides. A dry powder is generally much more stable than the same compound in solution, which is why laboratories receive peptides in this form.
General storage practices
- Keep it cold. Long-term storage of lyophilized peptides is commonly done in a freezer at around –20 °C. For short periods, a refrigerator is often used.
- Keep it dry. Powders absorb moisture from the air. Let a cold vial reach room temperature before opening it, so that condensation doesn't form on the powder.
- Keep it sealed and dark. Light and air can degrade some compounds. Store vials closed, in their box.
- Avoid repeated temperature swings. Frequent freezing and thawing shortens shelf life. Frost-free freezers cycle in temperature, so a stable spot is better.