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Peptide Contaminant Testing

ICP-MS heavy metal screening, GC-MS residual solvent analysis, and quantitative LAL endotoxin testing

Our lab data shows 17% of peptide samples contain detectable heavy metals above USP safety limits

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Heavy Metal & Residual Solvent Screening

Ensure the safety and quality of your research peptides with our comprehensive contaminant testing services. We screen for heavy metals, residual solvents, and bacterial endotoxins that could compromise experimental results or pose safety risks. Available now for researchers, compounding pharmacies, and biotech companies nationwide.

Heavy Metal Screening

ICP-MS screening for lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and other heavy metals at parts-per-billion detection limits. Results in 9-11 business days.

Residual Solvent Analysis

GC-MS analysis per ICH Q3C guidelines to detect and quantify TFA, DMF, DCM, acetonitrile, and other residual solvents from peptide synthesis.

Comprehensive Contaminant Panel

Combined heavy metal + residual solvent analysis in a single submission for a complete safety profile. Ideal for regulatory submissions and quality programs.

Endotoxin Testing (LAL)

Quantitative LAL assay for bacterial endotoxin detection and quantification per USP <85>. Essential for injectable peptides and cell culture research. See endotoxin testing details →

Why Contaminant Testing Matters

Even high-purity peptides can contain trace contaminants that interfere with biological assays, cell culture experiments, or in vivo studies. Our testing helps identify:

  • Heavy metals (Pb, Hg, As, Cd) that cause cellular toxicity and oxidative stress
  • Bacterial endotoxins (LPS) that trigger fever, inflammation, and septic shock in injectable applications
  • Residual synthesis solvents (TFA, DMF, acetonitrile) affecting assay results and cell viability
  • Organic solvent residues from purification processes exceeding ICH Q3C limits

Testing Specifications

Heavy Metal Screening

  • Method: ICP-MS analysis
  • Analytes: Pb, Hg, As, Cd + additional metals
  • Detection limit: ppb (parts per billion)
  • Standards: USP <232> / <233>
  • Turnaround: 9-11 business days
  • Sample required: 1-5 mg

Residual Solvent Testing

  • Method: GC-MS analysis
  • Analytes: TFA, DMF, DCM, acetonitrile + others
  • Detection limit: ppm (parts per million)
  • Standards: ICH Q3C Class 1, 2, 3
  • Turnaround: 9-11 business days
  • Sample required: 1-5 mg

Endotoxin Testing (LAL)

  • Method: Kinetic chromogenic LAL
  • Instrument: Charles River Endosafe nexgen-PTS
  • Sensitivity: 0.01 EU/mL
  • Standards: USP <85>
  • Turnaround: 9-11 business days
  • Sample required: 1-5 mg

Who Needs Contaminant Testing?

Researchers & Academics

Ensure contaminants aren't confounding your experimental results, especially for cell-based assays and in vivo studies.

Compounding Pharmacies

Verify raw material safety and meet USP requirements for heavy metal and solvent limits in compounded preparations.

Peptide Suppliers

Validate manufacturing quality with independent contaminant screening to build customer trust and meet regulatory standards.

Biotech Companies

Support IND-enabling studies and regulatory submissions with ICH-compliant contaminant data from an independent lab.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Your Peptides Screened for Contaminants

ICP-MS heavy metal screening and GC-MS residual solvent analysis, 9-11 business day turnaround, nationwide service.