HPLC vs Mass Spectrometry in Peptide Testing
HPLC measures peptide purity and mass spectrometry confirms molecular identity. Both tests are required for a valid research peptide COA.
HPLC measures peptide purity and mass spectrometry confirms molecular identity. Both tests are required for a valid research peptide COA.
A lot-specific COA links a unique batch number to the HPLC and mass spec test data for that exact vial, enabling full batch traceability
Acetate and TFA are the two most common counterions in research peptides. TFA adds more non-active mass and may lower pH in sensitive cell assays.
TFA (trifluoroacetic acid) is a standard counterion from HPLC peptide purification. It adds 5 to 15 percent non-active mass to labeled vial weight.
Net peptide content is the true mass of active peptide in a vial. Gross weight adds counterion and water that can overstate content by 10 to 30 percent.
Peptide vials must be swirled, not shaken. Shaking creates shear forces that trigger aggregation and reduce sample purity in research assays.
A peptide vial vacuum seal removes oxygen and moisture before hermetic closure, protecting freeze-dried peptides from oxidation and hydrolysis.
A cloudy peptide vial signals aggregation, precipitation, or bacterial growth. Learn how each cause differs and how to prevent it.
Last updated: July 2026 A research peptide shelf life study is a controlled stability test that measures how long a peptide stays intact under set storage conditions. Peptides can break down due to heat, moisture, light, and oxygen exposure. The form of the peptide (freeze-dried or reconstituted) is the single largest factor in shelf life. […]
Peptide purity research defines how labs use HPLC and mass spectrometry to verify purity grade and ensure COA-backed batch quality for research use.