Peptide Research Glossary
Essential terminology for laboratory researchers. Last updated May 2026.
Bacteriostatic Water
Sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Used for reconstituting lyophilized peptides. Allows multi-use from a single vial by inhibiting bacterial growth.
BPC-157
Body Protection Compound-157. A synthetic pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from a gastric protein, studied in preclinical models for tissue repair, tendon healing, and cytoprotective effects.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A document issued by a third-party laboratory confirming the identity, purity, and composition of a peptide batch. COAs typically include HPLC purity results and mass spectrometry data.
DAC (Drug Affinity Complex)
A chemical modification added to peptides like CJC-1295 that extends half-life by binding to serum albumin. CJC-1295 with DAC has a half-life of ~6-8 days versus minutes without it.
GH Secretagogue
A compound that stimulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland. Examples include Ipamorelin, GHRP-6, and MK-677.
GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone)
A hypothalamic hormone that stimulates GH release from the pituitary. CJC-1295 and Sermorelin are synthetic GHRH analogs used in research.
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1)
An incretin hormone involved in glucose metabolism and appetite regulation. GLP-1 receptor agonists (Semaglutide, Tirzepatide) are studied for metabolic and weight management research.
HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
The gold standard analytical method for determining peptide purity. Separates peptide components and quantifies the percentage of target compound versus impurities. NovaPure Labs uses HPLC testing on every batch.
IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)
A hormone produced primarily in the liver in response to growth hormone stimulation. Mediates many of GH's anabolic and regenerative effects. Often measured as a biomarker in GH-related research.
Ipamorelin
A selective pentapeptide GH secretagogue that stimulates pulsatile GH release via ghrelin receptors (GHS-R1a). Notable for minimal cortisol and prolactin elevation compared to other secretagogues.
Lyophilization (Freeze-Drying)
The process of removing water from peptides under vacuum at low temperature to create a stable powder. Lyophilized peptides have extended shelf life and are reconstituted with bacteriostatic water before use.
Mass Spectrometry (MS)
An analytical technique that measures the mass-to-charge ratio of molecules. Used alongside HPLC to confirm peptide identity and molecular weight, ensuring the compound matches its specification.
Peptide
A short chain of amino acids (typically 2-50) linked by peptide bonds. Smaller than proteins, peptides serve as signaling molecules in biological research. Research peptides are synthetic versions of naturally occurring sequences.
Purity (%)
The percentage of target peptide in a sample, as determined by HPLC analysis. Pharmaceutical-grade peptides are ≥99% pure. Higher purity ensures more reliable and reproducible research results.
Reconstitution
The process of dissolving lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptide powder with a diluent such as bacteriostatic water. Proper reconstitution technique (gentle swirling, no shaking) preserves peptide integrity.
Semaglutide
A long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist studied for glucose regulation and appetite modulation. Has a half-life of approximately 7 days, allowing weekly dosing in research protocols.
Subcutaneous (SubQ) Injection
An injection administered into the fatty tissue layer just beneath the skin. The most common administration route for research peptides in preclinical studies, allowing gradual absorption.
TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment)
A synthetic peptide based on the active region of Thymosin Beta-4. Studied for actin regulation, cell migration, angiogenesis, and wound healing in preclinical models.
Tirzepatide
A dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist representing a newer approach to metabolic research. Activates both incretin pathways, showing enhanced effects versus selective GLP-1 agonists in comparative studies.
Wolverine Stack
An informal name for the research combination of BPC-157 and TB-500, studied for complementary tissue repair mechanisms. BPC-157 targets localized healing while TB-500 provides systemic cell migration support.