The vocabulary behind COAs, product pages and published studies.
Peptide documentation uses a lot of shorthand. These are the terms you will meet most often.
COA (Certificate of Analysis): a lab report for a specific batch showing test results. How to read one.
HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography): a method that separates a sample's components and reports purity as the main peak's share of total peak area. HPLC explained.
Mass spectrometry (MS): measures molecular weight to confirm that the compound is what the label says.
Batch / lot number: the identifier that ties a vial to its specific test report.
Net peptide content: the share of the powder that is actual peptide, as opposed to water, salts and counter-ions. It is different from purity.
Counter-ion (such as TFA or acetate): a salt that remains from synthesis and purification.
Endotoxin: a bacterial contaminant sometimes tested for in higher-grade materials.
Lyophilized: freeze-dried into a stable powder.
Reconstitution: dissolving a lyophilized peptide in a diluent.
Bacteriostatic water: sterile water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol. Read more.
Half-life: the time for half of a compound to degrade or clear in a given system.
Agonist: a compound that activates a receptor.
Secretagogue: a compound that prompts the release of another substance, such as growth hormone.
GHRH analog: a compound that mimics growth hormone-releasing hormone. GHRH vs ghrelin.
Ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a): the receptor targeted by compounds such as Ipamorelin.
Angiogenesis: the formation of new blood vessels.
Telomerase: an enzyme that extends telomeres, the protective ends of chromosomes.
AMPK: a cellular energy sensor studied in metabolic research.
Mitochondria-derived peptide: a peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA, such as MOTS-c.
RUO (research use only): products intended for laboratory research, not for human consumption. Read our policy.
Written for a research audience. Midas products are for laboratory research use only.