Use this glossary when reading laboratory documents and scientific reports. Definitions explain terms; they do not establish the quality, safety or effectiveness of a particular product.
To put these terms into a reading workflow, use our research methods guide.
| Term | Meaning in this guide |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Analysis (COA) | A document reporting analytical information for an identified material or lot; read the stated tests and results. |
| Lot or batch identifier | A reference used to connect material with its associated records. |
| HPLC | High-performance liquid chromatography, an analytical separation technique. A peak-area purity result depends on the stated method and measured signal. |
| Identity testing | Analytical work intended to establish which material is present; it is a separate question from the percentage reported for purity. |
| Net peptide content | The peptide fraction relative to non-peptidic material such as counterions and residual water; it is distinct from chromatographic purity. |
| In vitro | Work performed outside the body in a laboratory setting. |
| Clinical trial | Research in people evaluating a medical approach. |
| Method specificity | The ability of an analytical procedure to distinguish the intended analyte in the presence of relevant other components. |
Put the terms in context
For a document checklist, read Understanding Certificates of Analysis. For an explanation of reporting basis, read What Purity Percentage Means. For material records, read How to Store and Handle Research Compounds.
When a report uses a term differently, keep its definition and method with the result. If the reporting basis is unclear, record the question rather than assuming that two results are interchangeable.
Sources: Bachem analytical-data FAQ; Bachem quality-control guide; ICH Q2(R2); NCI: in vitro; NCI: clinical trial.
