Pre-Mixed Peptide Cartridges: Format and Handling for Laboratory Use

Mercia Research supplies its entire peptide catalogue in pre-mixed 3ml pen cartridges, pre-loaded into the Mercia Research pen system. This format differs from the lyophilised vial model used by many peptide suppliers and offers distinct practical considerations for laboratory researchers.

What Pre-Mixed Means

Unlike lyophilised peptides — which are supplied as a freeze-dried powder requiring reconstitution with bacteriostatic water before use — Mercia Research cartridges contain the peptide already dissolved in solution and loaded into a 3ml cartridge ready to use with the Mercia Research pen. This eliminates the reconstitution step and the associated variables of diluent volume, mixing technique, and concentration calculation.

Each cartridge contains the peptide at a fixed concentration corresponding to the stated milligram content per 3ml volume. The solution is prepared under controlled conditions and verified for concentration and purity before release.

Storage Requirements

Pre-mixed peptide solutions have different storage requirements from lyophilised powders. Lyophilised peptides are typically stored at −20°C and are stable for 24 months or longer in sealed vials. Pre-mixed solutions are more sensitive to temperature and should be stored as follows:

All Mercia Research cartridges should be stored refrigerated at 2–8°C. They should not be frozen, as freeze-thaw cycling can affect solution stability and peptide integrity. Cartridges should be kept away from direct light, particularly for compounds such as NAD+ that are light-sensitive.

Under proper refrigerated storage, pre-mixed solutions remain stable for the duration stated on the lot COA. Researchers should note the lot date and plan usage accordingly.

Cold-Chain Shipping

Mercia Research ships all orders via cold-chain logistics. Cartridges are dispatched in insulated packaging with appropriate gel packs sized for the shipment destination. Orders are dispatched Monday to Thursday to avoid transit over weekends. A temperature indicator is included with temperature-sensitive lots.

Pen Compatibility

The 3ml cartridges supplied by Mercia Research are designed for use with the Mercia Research pen system. They are not designed for compatibility with third-party pens or devices, and Mercia Research does not support use with non-proprietary delivery systems.

Quality Assurance

Each cartridge batch is independently HPLC-verified for purity and confirmed for identity by mass spectrometry. A lot-matched Certificate of Analysis accompanies every order, detailing purity, identity confirmation, lot number, and preparation date.

All products supplied by Mercia Research are for laboratory research use only. Not intended for human or animal consumption.