Reconstitution
The process of dissolving a lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptide powder with bacteriostatic water or sterile water before injection. Proper reconstitution technique is critical — the diluent should be added slowly along the vial wall to avoid damaging the peptide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reconstitution?
Why is Reconstitution important in peptide research?
Related Terms
The freeze-drying process that removes water from a peptide solution by sublimation under vacuum. Creates a stable, shelf-stable powder with a characteristic "puck" or "cake" appearance in the vial.
Bacteriostatic waterSterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Preferred for reconstituting peptides because the preservative inhibits bacterial growth, allowing multiple draws from the same vial over 28 days.
Sterile waterWater that has been sterilized and is free of microorganisms but contains no preservative. Unlike bacteriostatic water, vials should be used within 24 hours of opening due to contamination risk.
Lyophilized powderA freeze-dried peptide in powder form. Lyophilization removes water to create a shelf-stable product that must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water before injection.