Analytical Methods Used in Peptide Characterisation
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An overview of the techniques that appear on peptide certificates, and what each contributes.
HPLC
Separates sample components by their interaction with a stationary phase. Used to express the main component as a percentage of total detected peak area.
Mass spectrometry
Measures mass-to-charge ratio of ionised molecules. Used to compare observed mass with the theoretical mass of the intended sequence.
Combined reporting
HPLC and MS answer different questions. A certificate reporting both supports purity and identity; one reporting only HPLC supports purity alone.
Other assays
Endotoxin, sterility and moisture testing may be performed for particular lots. They should be listed only where they exist for that lot.
This page is laboratory reference material. It does not describe suitability for human or veterinary use.
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