Peptide Science Glossary

Essential Research Terms for Precision, Purity, and Performance

Introduction to Peptide Science Terminology

Welcome to the Peptide Science Glossary by PureLife Peptides, your expertly curated reference for the language of modern peptide research. Whether you’re exploring metabolic modulators, regenerative compounds, or cellular optimization tools, this guide is designed to support clarity, compliance, and confidence in every step of your research process.

Core Measurement Units in Peptide

Precision begins with proper measurement. The units below are foundational to dose calculations, solution concentrations, and accurate experimental design.

Nanogram (ng):

One-billionth of a gram. Used for ultra-trace compound studies.

Microgram (mcg):

One-millionth of a gram. Common for low-concentration applications.
1 mg = 1,000 mcg

Milligram (mg):

The most common unit for freeze-dried research peptides (lyophilized). Reflects powder mass before reconstitution.

Milliliter (mL):

Measures liquid volume. Essential for dilution and solution prep.

Cubic Centimeter (cc):

Equivalent to 1 mL. Often used interchangeably in lab documentation.

International Unit (IU):

A measure of biological activity or effect particularly relevant to hormones and select peptides. Does not convert directly to mg or mcg.

Peptide Delivery Formats in Research

The delivery method of a peptide directly influences its absorption, systemic reach, and application-specific behavior. Below are the most utilized research formats.

Subcutaneous (SubQ) Injection:

Delivered into muscle tissue for accelerated uptake.

Intravenous (IV) Injection:

Introduced into the bloodstream for immediate bioavailability.

Intradermal (ID) Injection

Injected into the skin’s upper dermal layer. Suitable for localized study areas.

Sublingual Delivery

Absorbed through oral mucosa under the tongue. Studied for bypassing first-pass digestion.

Intranasal Sprays

Used in peptide nasal delivery systems. Investigated for nootropic and neuroprotective applications due to central nervous system proximity.

Transdermal Patches

Adhesive systems enable slow, sustained peptide diffusion through the skin.

Topical Formulations

Peptide-based creams, serums, or essential oil carriers designed for targeted application in regenerative and dermatological research.

Foundational Research Vocabulary

Understanding key terminology improves accuracy when designing protocols or interpreting peptide-related literature.

Half-Life:

Time required for 50% of a compound to degrade or clear from the system.

COA (Certificate of Analysis):

A third-party lab report confirming identity, purity, and structural integrity of the peptide.

CNS (Central Nervous System):

Comprising the brain and spinal cord commonly targeted in cognitive and neurological peptide studies.

GIP (Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide):

A gut hormone studied in metabolic and insulin-regulation research.

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1):

A naturally occurring peptide examined for its effects on appetite regulation and glycemic control.

ISR (Injection Site Reaction):

A localized response sometimes observed at the administration site. Important for evaluating compound tolerability during protocol development.

Common Dosing Abbreviations in Peptide Protocols

QD

Once daily.

BID

Twice daily

TID

Three times daily

QID

Four times daily

QOD

Every other day

PRN

As needed

HS

At bedtime

These shorthand notations are often included in experimental schedules or protocol outlines to streamline frequency tracking.

Storage & Formulation Handling by Format

Preserving peptide structure is essential for maintaining research validity. Each formulation type requires its own storage method to prevent degradation or contamination.

Vial-Based Peptides (Lyophilized & Reconstituted)

Form: Freeze-dried powder; reconstituted with sterile solvent for use in controlled studies.

Before Reconstitution:

  • Store between 2°C–8°C (refrigerated).
  • Freeze at -20°C or lower for long-term storage.
  • Protect from direct light, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
  • Keep sealed in original packaging until time of use.

After Reconstitution:

  • Store between 2°C–8°C in the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze after reconstitution.
  • Avoid repeated air exposure or agitation.
  • Clearly label with reconstitution date and compound ID.
  • Use within 30–45 days depending on the compound.

Vial-Based Peptides (Lyophilized & Reconstituted)

Form: Freeze-dried powder; reconstituted with sterile solvent for use in controlled studies.

Before Reconstitution:

  • Store between 2°C–8°C (refrigerated).
  • Freeze at -20°C or lower for long-term storage.
  • Protect from direct light, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
  • Keep sealed in original packaging until time of use.

After Reconstitution:

  • Store between 2°C–8°C in the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze after reconstitution.
  • Avoid repeated air exposure or agitation.
  • Clearly label with reconstitution date and compound ID.
  • Use within 30–45 days depending on the compound.

Transdermal Peptide Patches

Form: Adhesive, time-release systems

Storage:

  • Keep in sealed, original foil packaging.
  • Store at room temperature (15°C–25°C).
  • Avoid exposure to heat, moisture, or sunlight.
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze unless specified.

Handling (Research Use Only):

  • Do not remove backing until time of testing.
  • Maintain patch integrity unless protocol requires customization.

Intranasal Spray Formulations

Form: Pre-compounded liquid spray solutions

Storage:

  • Store upright at 2°C–8°C (refrigerated).
  • Keep sealed and shielded from light.
  • Do not freeze.

Handling (Research Use Only):

  • Avoid non-sterile surface contact.
  • Record open date. Monitor solution over the research window (typically 30–45 days).

Intranasal Spray Formulations

Form: Pre-compounded liquid spray solutions

Storage:

  • Store upright at 2°C–8°C (refrigerated).
  • Keep sealed and shielded from light.
  • Do not freeze.

Handling (Research Use Only):

  • Avoid non-sterile surface contact.
  • Record open date. Monitor solution over the research window (typically 30–45 days).

Topical Peptide Formulations

Form: Peptide-infused creams, balms, or essential oil bases

Storage:

  • Store at 15°C–25°C in a dark, dry environment.
  • Keep lids sealed tightly to avoid air and moisture intrusion.
  • Do not refrigerate unless otherwise directed.

Handling (Research Use Only):

  • Transfer using sterile tools for application-specific studies.
  • Gently stir if natural separation occurs.

Did You Know?

A peptide’s half-life is one of the most critical factors in protocol development influencing frequency, timing, and overall effectiveness in controlled models.

Precision. Purity. Performance.

Understanding the correct terminology and respecting handling protocols ensures your research is built on a strong foundation of accuracy and compliance. Whether working with injectable peptides, intranasal sprays, patches, or topical formulations, how you store and manage your materials has a direct impact on the validity of your results.

At PureLife Peptides, we offer premium-grade peptides developed to the highest quality control standards, empowering researchers with confidence, integrity, and consistent performance.

Designed for the serious researcher. Engineered for excellence.

PureLife Peptides Canada’s trusted source in elite peptide science.

Disclaimer:

All peptides sold by PureLife Peptides are intended for laboratory research and development purposes only. They are not intended for human use or consumption.

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