NOVA LABS CO logo

Educational Resources

Educational resources illustration

An informed customer is an empowered customer. In this section you will find information about why independent testing is important, what parameters are measured, the techniques we use, and how to interpret your results. We also provide guidance on selecting a laboratory and when to seek third‑party testing. If you have additional questions, feel free to reach out at contact@novalabsco.com.

Why Independent Testing Matters

Independent laboratories provide objective verification of quality, purity, and identity. Because we have no stake in the manufacture or sale of your products, our only priority is accurate measurement. Third‑party testing eliminates conflicts of interest and helps you make informed sourcing decisions.

Key Parameters Assessed

Comprehensive analysis evaluates multiple aspects of your sample:

  • Purity: Percentage of the target peptide relative to other substances. High purity (≥95%) is expected for most research applications.
  • Identity: Verification of the correct amino acid sequence and molecular weight via mass spectrometry.
  • Content: Quantifies the actual amount of peptide, accounting for residual salts and water.
  • Impurities: Identification of deletion sequences, truncated peptides, protecting groups, aggregates, and endotoxins.

Analytical Techniques

We employ a range of methods to interrogate your samples:

  • HPLC/UPLC: Separates components based on physical and chemical properties. Variants include reversed‑phase, ion‑exchange, and size‑exclusion chromatography.
  • Mass Spectrometry: Determines molecular weight and detects modifications. ESI‑MS and MALDI‑TOF provide fast identification, while LC‑MS combines separation and detection.
  • Amino Acid Analysis (AAA): Hydrolyzes peptides and measures each residue to confirm composition and content.
  • Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR): Offers detailed structural information including conformation and identification of structural isomers.

Selecting a Laboratory

When choosing a testing partner, consider the following factors:

  • Accreditation: Look for ISO 17025 accreditation and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) compliance.
  • Technical Capabilities: Ensure the lab offers a range of analytical methods, appropriate detection limits, and experience with peptides similar to yours.
  • Reporting & Documentation: The lab should provide comprehensive reports, raw data (chromatograms, spectra), and traceability to reference standards.

Interpreting Results

Understanding your certificate of analysis can help you spot potential issues:

  • Purity Specifications: ≥95% is acceptable for most research; ≥99% may be required for sensitive applications.
  • Molecular Weight Verification: Observed mass should match theoretical mass within ±0.05%. Multiple peaks may indicate counter‑ions.
  • Red Flags: Unusually low purity, incorrect molecular weight, large unidentified peaks, inconsistent amino acid ratios, or high endotoxin levels.

When to Conduct Third‑Party Testing

Consider submitting samples for independent analysis when:

  • You are evaluating a new supplier or purchasing in bulk.
  • The research is critical and quality directly affects outcomes.
  • You need to comply with publication or regulatory requirements.
  • There are discrepancies in experimental results or concerns about lot‑to‑lot variation.