Endotoxin testing
Endotoxins are fragments of bacteria that survive heat and filtration and can disturb sensitive experiments. We measure them for every batch in our loop, and every result becomes part of our data.
Measured for every batch in our loop
Summary
Every batch in our loop is tested for endotoxins by an independent laboratory. The result is recorded alongside the HPLC purity, as part of the structured data of that batch.
What endotoxins are
Endotoxins are lipopolysaccharides, large molecules from the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. They are released when bacteria grow or die, and they are remarkably stable: standard sterilisation does not reliably destroy them, and they pass through the filters used to remove bacteria.
Why they matter in research
Immune cells react to endotoxins at very low concentrations. In cell-based experiments, a contaminated peptide can therefore produce effects that have nothing to do with the peptide itself. Testing removes that uncertainty before the material is used.
How endotoxins are measured
The classic test uses a reagent obtained from the blood cells of the horseshoe crab, known as LAL, which reacts to endotoxin by clotting or with a colour change. Recombinant tests based on the same reaction work without animal material. Results are given in endotoxin units, EU, relative to the amount of peptide.
From result to data
An endotoxin result is a short number, but its history is informative. Kept as structured data, results show how a process performs over time. We are building tools that track this and flag results that deserve a closer look.
Working on peptides and data?
We are looking for research, data and laboratory partners who want to build the loop with us. Tell us what you are working on.
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