Scrutinizing Third-Party Authentication
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is your primary shield in peptide procurement. The first critical element is independent, third-party testing. Internal manufacturer reports lack objectivity. Insist on documentation from an unbiased, accredited laboratory, such as an ISO 17025-certified facility. This external validation confirms the data was not generated in-house, providing a foundational layer of trust. The COA should clearly state the testing laboratory’s name and credentials, ensuring the results are impartial and adhere to recognized international standards for analytical chemistry.
What to look for in peptide COA rests fundamentally on the purity assessment. The stated purity percentage, often from High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), is paramount. A reputable COA will display the actual chromatogram, not just a number. Examine this graph; a single, sharp peak indicates a homogeneous product, while multiple peaks suggest impurities or byproducts. Furthermore, the method of measurement—whether by UV detection or peak area—must be stated. Purity is non-negotiable, as contaminants can render research invalid or pose safety risks.
Confirming Identity and Composition
Beyond purity, verifying the peptide’s identity is essential. The COA must include mass spectrometry data, typically from Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI-TOF) or similar techniques. This confirms the exact molecular weight matches the expected sequence. Additionally, review the amino acid analysis (AAA) section. This quantifies the residual moisture, acetate, or trifluoroacetate (TFA) content, and sometimes the exact amino acid ratios after hydrolysis. These figures ensure the peptide is not only pure but also correctly synthesized and accurately weighed, as excess counter-ions can artificially inflate the net weight.