TFA Removal Service

For education only

This guide cannot diagnose a condition or recommend a personal treatment plan. Discuss medical questions with a qualified professional.

What is TFA and How Is It Used in Peptide Synthesis?

Peptide synthesis and purification heavily rely on TFA (trifluoracetic acid). TFA is used during several key steps, including:

Cleavage of the peptide from the resin

Removal of protection groups from the amino acid side chains

HPLC purification

While free TFA is removed during purification and freeze-drying, it also protonates side-chain amino functionalities of amino acids and the free N-termini of peptides. As a result, peptides are typically obtained as TFA salts. The anionic TFA acts as a counter ion for positively charged sidechains and the N-terminus. Therefore, the amount of TFA depends on the peptide sequence and can range between 10%-45% TFA.

Because peptides are commonly supplied as TFA salts, many researchers consider obtaining peptides with TFA removed before sensitive biological applications.

Do you really need TFA removal services?

TFA removal from peptides is a frequently requested service in peptide research and development. Before requesting TFA removal, it is important to understand whether it is necessary for your specific application. We encourage you to review the information below to determine whether TFA removed peptides will meaningfully improve your results — or whether your assay will perform well without it.

When Does TFA Matter?

Cellular assays

API study

Immunotherapy research

A Quick Self-Check

What is the final peptide concentration in your assay?

What is the final estimated TFA concentration?

Is your system pH-sensitive?

Have you observed unexplained variability that could be acid-related?

How to remove TFA from peptides

Acetate

Hydrochloride

For biological applications, replacement with acetate is recommended, because it is less acidic than both TFA and hydrochloric acid.

TFA Removal Service | How to Remove TFA from Peptides