Handling & Storage

Importance of Proper Storage and Handling

Plasmids, proteins, and peptides are sensitive molecules that can undergo degradation, oxidation, or other chemical modifications if not stored and handled correctly. Improper storage conditions or mishandling can compromise the quality and stability of molecules, rendering them less effective or even unusable. By following the recommended practices for storage and handling, researchers can maintain the integrity of molecules and maximize their potential in various applications.

Storage Considerations After Reconstitution

Once the molecule is reconstituted, it is important to store it properly to maintain its stability and integrity. Here are some considerations:

1. Aliquoting: Divide the reconstituted molecule solution into smaller aliquots to minimize the number of freeze-thaw cycles. This ensures that only a portion of the solution is exposed to each cycle, reducing the risk of degradation.
2. Aliquot volume: Consider the anticipated usage and avoid excessive volume in each aliquot to minimize waste. Smaller aliquots also allow for better temperature control during storage.
3. Freezing: Store the aliquots at the recommended storage temperature (-20°C or lower) to prevent degradation. It is advisable to use dedicated freezer racks or boxes to organize the peptides and facilitate easy retrieval.
4. Thawing: Thaw only the required aliquot just before use. Thawing and refreezing DNA, proteins and peptides multiple times can contribute to degradation and loss of activity.

Storage Conditions for Peptides

Temperature

Temperature control is crucial for preserving the stability of biological molecules. Most plasmids, proteins and peptides should be stored between 2°C to 8°C and for preserving short-to-long term duration, in a freezer at a temperature of -20°C or lower. This low temperature helps to inhibit enzymatic degradation and maintain the molecule's structure and activity.

For long-term storage, some molecules may require even lower temperatures, such as -80°C or liquid nitrogen (-196°C). It is important to note that each molecule may have specific temperature requirements, so it is recommended to consult the product specifications or technical data sheet for precise storage temperature recommendations.

Packaging

Proper packaging is essential to protect biological molecules from external factors that could degrade their quality. The following considerations should be taken into account:

1. Vials: Plasmid DNA, proteins and peptides are typically supplied in sealed cryovials. These vials provide a secure and airtight environment to protect the peptide from moisture and air oxidation.
2. Sealing: After each use, ensure the vial is tightly sealed to prevent air or moisture ingress. This can be achieved by using appropriate vial caps or crimping tools.

Light Protection

Peptides and protein are often light-sensitive and can degrade upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. To mitigate light-induced degradation, it is crucial to protect them from direct light. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Amber vials: Use vials made of amber glass, which offer increased protection against UV light compared to clear glass vials.
2. Aluminum foil: Wrap vials with aluminum foil to provide an additional layer of light protection. Ensure that the foil covers the vial completely, leaving no areas exposed.
3. Storage containers: If storing multiple vials, consider using opaque storage containers to shield the peptides from light exposure.

Moisture Control

Moisture can adversely affect plasmids, proteins and peptide stability, leading to degradation or aggregation. To minimize moisture-related issues, it is crucial to:

1. Avoid condensation: When removing plasmids, proteins and peptides from the freezer, allow them to reach room temperature before opening the vial. This prevents condensation from forming inside the vial, which can introduce moisture.
2. Dry environment: Store them in a dry environment with controlled humidity levels to prevent moisture absorption. Avoid storing them in areas prone to high humidity, such as refrigerators or freezers where frequent access leads to temperature fluctuations.

Handling of Peptides

Proper handling of peptides ensures their integrity and prevents contamination. Consider the following guidelines when working with peptides:

Aseptic Technique

Maintaining aseptic technique during peptide handling is crucial, especially when peptides are used in cell culture, animal studies, or clinical applications. Here are key considerations:

1. Sterilization: Sterilize all equipment and surfaces that will come into contact with the peptides. This includes laboratory utensils, pipettes, and containers. Autoclaving, chemical disinfection, or other appropriate sterilization methods can be used.
2. Glove usage: Wear clean, disposable gloves to prevent contamination from skin contact. Change gloves regularly and avoid touching non-sterile surfaces while handling peptides.
3. Personal hygiene: Practice good personal hygiene by washing hands thoroughly before and after handling peptides. Avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes during the process.

Contamination Prevention

Contamination can compromise the purity and quality of peptides. Take the following precautions to prevent contamination:

1. Dedicated equipment: Use dedicated equipment specifically designated for peptide handling. This includes separate weighing scales, pipettes, and containers to avoid cross-contamination between different peptides.
2. Labeling: Clearly label each container or vial with the peptide name, concentration, and date of preparation to ensure proper identification and minimize the risk of mix-ups.
3. Avoid aerosol generation: Peptides can be easily dispersed in the form of fine particles when handled vigorously or transferred between containers. To prevent aerosol generation, handle peptides gently and avoid rapid pipetting or vortexing.