Derek DecodedPeptide Bros Episode 3 — Steve, Brandon, Jack, and Derek are back, joined this month by Max from Maximum Pharma. We get into Eli Lilly's lawsuits and what they actually mean for the research space, China's grip on manufacturing, ACE-083 for site enhancement, mitochondrial repair with IPAM and methylene blue, and then run the monthly nootropic tier list.
Timestamps: 00:00 – Cold open 00:58 – Intros: Max from Maximum Pharma joins the table 01:26 – Eli Lilly's lawsuits and the end of the Reddit retatrutide era 11:07 – China's grip on manufacturing, API bans, and peptides going mainstream 25:17 – ACE-083 site enhancement: protocols, CRP spikes, and what it's actually doing 37:49 – Inside Freedom Diagnostics: HPLC turnaround, lab comparisons, and the state of the RUO space 52:23 – Ipamorelin, methylene blue, and repairing mitochondria 01:03:38 – SLU-PP-332: the 400mg experiment, injectable formulas, and DMSO warnings 01:12:12 – TIER LIST: Bromantane, injectable ITPP, and the Cardarine cancer debate 01:27:05 – 9-Me-BC, dopamine resets, cyclazodone, and NSI-189 01:41:28 – Cerebrolysin, sleep compounds, and closing out
Is The Research Peptide Era Over? | Peptide Bros Ep. 3 (feat. Maximum Pharma)Derek Decoded2026-08-28 | Peptide Bros Episode 3 — Steve, Brandon, Jack, and Derek are back, joined this month by Max from Maximum Pharma. We get into Eli Lilly's lawsuits and what they actually mean for the research space, China's grip on manufacturing, ACE-083 for site enhancement, mitochondrial repair with IPAM and methylene blue, and then run the monthly nootropic tier list.
Timestamps: 00:00 – Cold open 00:58 – Intros: Max from Maximum Pharma joins the table 01:26 – Eli Lilly's lawsuits and the end of the Reddit retatrutide era 11:07 – China's grip on manufacturing, API bans, and peptides going mainstream 25:17 – ACE-083 site enhancement: protocols, CRP spikes, and what it's actually doing 37:49 – Inside Freedom Diagnostics: HPLC turnaround, lab comparisons, and the state of the RUO space 52:23 – Ipamorelin, methylene blue, and repairing mitochondria 01:03:38 – SLU-PP-332: the 400mg experiment, injectable formulas, and DMSO warnings 01:12:12 – TIER LIST: Bromantane, injectable ITPP, and the Cardarine cancer debate 01:27:05 – 9-Me-BC, dopamine resets, cyclazodone, and NSI-189 01:41:28 – Cerebrolysin, sleep compounds, and closing out
Research use only. Not for human consumption.Left Your Peptides Out Overnight—Are They Ruined?Derek Decoded2026-09-17 | Left a peptide vial outside the fridge overnight? The context matters.
This breakdown explains why time, temperature, light, and formulation all affect how we interpret a storage mistake—and why a cool counter and a hot car are different exposures.
Chemical stability and sterility are separate questions. Results from one sample or study don’t establish whether another vial is usable, and returning it to the fridge doesn’t reverse degradation or restore sterility.
Follow the specific product’s storage and temperature-excursion guidance.
Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
#Peptides #PeptideStorage #PeptideStability #ScienceExplainedIs AICAR an Alternative to MOTS-c? The Mechanisms ExplainedDerek Decoded2026-09-16 | AICAR and MOTS-c both connect to AMPK, but does that make them interchangeable?
In this beginner-friendly breakdown, we explore AICAR’s conversion into ZMP, the indirect pathway proposed for MOTS-c, and experimental findings involving inflammatory signaling, cellular energy production, and autophagy.
These findings come from specific experimental models. They don’t establish equivalent benefits, comparative safety, or a proven replacement.
Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
#AICAR #MOTSc #AMPKNAD+: Why More Doesn’t Always Mean BetterDerek Decoded2026-09-16 | NAD+ gets plenty of attention—but is it actually the limiting factor?
Here’s a beginner-friendly breakdown of its role in cellular energy, recycling, and repair signaling, plus where CD38 and the precursors NR and NMN fit into the picture.
The key question: does raising a level translate into a meaningful benefit?
Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice.
#NAD #CellularHealth #LongevityResearch #ScienceExplainedDo Peptide Blends Degrade Faster? GLOW’s 90-Day ResultsDerek Decoded2026-09-15 | Does putting multiple peptides in the same vial make them break down faster?
This video breaks down Peptide Crafters’ 90-day GLOW study, with analytical testing by Janoshik. It tracked GHK-Cu, BPC-157, and TB-500 after reconstitution under refrigerated and room-temperature conditions.
At day 90, the reported content remaining relative to baseline was:
I also compare those results with earlier solo-peptide studies. None of the blend readings were lower, but separate experiments cannot establish that blending protects the peptides—or rule out an effect under other conditions.
These percentages describe measured content, not purity, effectiveness, sterility, or safe use.
Credit: Peptide Crafters and Janoshik Analytical.
For research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
#PeptideResearch #GLOW #PeptideStabilityWhy does KPV not fix every inflammatory problem? #Inflammation #Pathways #ScienceDerek Decoded2026-09-15 | In this video, I actually go into the science and break down all the pathways involved in inflammation because everybody just slaps a label on it.How Long Is Bac Water Good For? Hospira 120 Day Degradation DataDerek Decoded2026-09-14 | Does BAC water’s preservative break down after 28 days? A PTDS-funded study tested three Hospira vials over 120 days, comparing room temperature, refrigeration, and weekly punctures.
I break down each line, what changed at day 120, and why the results don’t establish a refrigeration advantage.
The key distinction: researchers measured benzyl alcohol—the preservative. They did NOT test whether the vials remained sterile. These findings don’t establish that opened vials are safe to use for 120 days.
Credit: PTDS for funding the study and Janoshik Analytical for testing.
For research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice.
#BacteriostaticWater #BACWater #ResearchBreakdownEloralintide vs Cagrilintide: What “12×” Actually MeansDerek Decoded2026-09-14 | Both mimic amylin—but their receptor activity differs.
Here’s how the calcitonin receptor and a partner protein called RAMP form an amylin receptor, why eloralintide favors AMY1, and what its roughly twelvefold receptor preference actually means.
More selective doesn’t automatically mean better. Laboratory findings don’t establish superior tolerability in people.
Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice.
#Eloralintide #Cagrilintide #Amylin #ScienceExplainedWhy does Janoshik not do purity on blends?Derek Decoded2026-09-14 | When I was out touring the Janoshik facility, I asked Peter Magic straight up why they don't put purity on their blends, and he gave me the straight answer. When there are multiple peaks, there could be hidden impurities in those peaks, so instead of guessing on a standard, they will only do identified or mg/mL.
#Janoshik #interview #Q&A #purity #bluntsKPV Isn’t an Inflammation Off SwitchDerek Decoded2026-09-13 | More KPV doesn’t automatically mean a better result. In this Short, I explain the shield analogy, inflammatory signaling, and the questions people miss about NF-κB and PepT1 transport.
The research discussed involves cells and animal models—it doesn’t establish effective human dosing or prove clinical benefits. Research referenced
Full breakdown on my Substack. Educational discussion, not medical advice or dosing guidance.
#KPV #Peptides #Inflammation #ShortsBPAP Nootropic: A Volume Knob for Your Brain?Derek Decoded2026-09-13 | ...I Went Inside Janoshik’s Lab | My Prague ExperienceDerek Decoded2026-09-13 | Come inside Janoshik’s lab with me, then spend a few days in Prague—training, making content, exploring the city, and taking it all in.
The lab visit was the reason for this trip, but I wanted to bring you along for everything around it too. From the tour and conversations inside the lab to gym sessions, long walks, and finding time to get out from behind the screen, this is a look at the work and life behind Derek Decoded.
This was filmed back in June 2026 and finally made it to the channel on September 13. It took a little longer than planned, but I still wanted to share it with you.
I’m grateful I got to experience this, and even more grateful for the support that makes trips and content like this possible. Thank you for being part of it.
CHAPTERS 00:00 Finally in Prague 00:37 The reason I came | Janoshik lab visit 07:29 After the visit 07:58 Finding a rhythm 08:13 Work, training & getting outside 10:30 Out beyond the screen 11:19 A walk & dinner 12:40 Walking home through Prague 13:07 One more workout 14:46 Taking this home
What would you like to see more of next—the lab visits, the training, or the behind-the-scenes side of making these videos? Let me know below.
Subscribe to Derek Decoded for more.
#DerekDecoded #Janoshik #PragueVlogHigh cholesterol and plaque buildup: what blood work markers to watch out for?Derek Decoded2026-09-10 | https://Stan.store/derekdecoded
#testosterone #trt #freetest #totaltest #shbgWhat Does Low TSH Actually Mean #TSH #thyroid #t3Derek Decoded2026-09-09 | ...Built to Last — Episode #1: The Breakdown w/ @Bearded_muscleDerek Decoded2026-09-08 | In episode 1 of Built to Last, I sit down with Beardedmuscle (coach, 7 years of prep experience, 50+ athletes on stage) to go through every marker on the panel: thyroid, liver, kidney, hormones, lipids, ApoB, Lp(a), a positive ANA — and what any of it actually means.
Then we build the plan: my real macros, the math, carb cycling between training and rest days, the split, cardio, and how to time five meals around training.
Also in this one: how I went from 248 lbs at 16 to a three-year binge cycle to binge-free on a GLP-1, and Beard's own first set of labs in 2018 (LDL 220).
Timestamps 0:00 Cold open 0:42 Medical disclaimer 0:53 Who is Beardedmuscle? 4:25 Two workouts in Utah 4:31 When Beard first got enhanced 6:44 Beard's first labs in 2018: LDL 220 10:38 Doctors, Accutane and severe acne 12:18 Derek at 248 lbs 16:26 175 lbs, binge cycles and IGF-1 at 73 18:16 Finding tirzepatide 22:37 Binge-free with GLP-1s 25:17 Set points, carbs and water weight 38:56 Derek's bloodwork: thyroid panel 46:24 Liver and kidney markers 49:01 Blood counts 50:15 1,827 total testosterone: natural or enhanced? 52:42 SHBG, estradiol and free testosterone 59:30 Ferritin, Lp(a) and ApoB 1:06:22 ANA screen: positive 1:07:33 IGF-1 and growth hormone 1:12:21 Cortisol and stress 1:20:10 Insulin sensitivity and HbA1c 1:23:26 How often to get bloodwork 1:28:05 Derek's current macros 1:36:50 Carb cycling: training vs rest days 1:40:52 Training split and cardio 1:46:45 Nutrient timing: 5 meals 1:56:24 How to program a set 2:08:15 Wrap-up
Nothing in this episode is medical advice. See the disclaimer at the start. Talk to your physician before changing anything.
#bloodwork #testosterone #tirzepatide #carbcycling #naturalbodybuildingRender Launch Week and Way Too Many Pit StopsDerek Decoded2026-09-07 | Episode 01 of the vlog series.
Render My Skin Care Company: skinbyrender.com Follow Me: https://stan.store/derekdecoded
We kicked things off in Utah for the Skin by Render launch: time with the crew, gym sessions, mountain views, and watching the first orders roll in. Then it was on to Tampa, Las Vegas, and finally Buffalo, with way more flight delays and rebooking than I planned.
In Vegas, I head to the Acquisition.com workshop, meet up with Tony for the gym, and get a little time to explore. Back home, we open Render with my family and finish with the full product unboxing.
A little business, a little travel, and a lot of pit stops. Thank you to everyone who supported the launch and everyone who made this trip what it was.
Which stop would you want to see more of in the next vlog? Leave a comment and subscribe to follow the series.
CHAPTERS 00:00 A preview of the week 00:19 Packing for the trip 01:04 Utah with Ben and the gym crew 02:42 Utah mornings and mountain views 03:23 Skin by Render launch day 05:30 The first orders come in 07:14 The mountain coaster 08:26 Finally making it to Tampa 10:51 The flight-delay story 13:36 First time in Las Vegas 16:15 Workshop prep and recap 17:29 Meeting Tony and the Vegas gym 18:42 Day two in Vegas 19:32 Bellagio fountains and exploring 19:47 Another airport adventure 20:18 Back home with Missy 20:46 Family unboxing and first reactions 22:42 The full Render unboxing
#SkinByRender #TravelVlog #UtahVlog #LasVegasVlog #EntrepreneurVlogHonest thoughts on cerebrolyosin and everything you need to know #Cerebrolysin #NeurogenesisDerek Decoded2026-08-30 | ...Steves Mitochondrial Healing Stack IPAM + SS-31 #peptidebrosDerek Decoded2026-08-28 | ...Jack Bought Two Cats In Slovakia 😂Derek Decoded2026-08-28 | ...Should MOTS-C Be Cycled? Looking At Every Study We HaveDerek Decoded2026-08-27 | #motsc #ampk #cyclingDoes KPV actually need to be cycled? #KPV #receptor #desensitization #inflammationDerek Decoded2026-08-26 | ...BPC-157 May Degrade Alot Faster Than ExpectedDerek Decoded2026-08-22 | Whole breakdown from a 90-day reconstitution degradation study, refrigerated versus room temperature #Reconstitution #Degradation #Purity
https://stan.store/derekdecodedBuilt to Last: Day 1 of The ResetDerek Decoded2026-08-01 | Day 1 of Built to Last: The Reset Series.
Spent months getting my thyroid numbers back on track — took it a little far into "just eating" territory. 8 weeks, zero GLP-1. Needed it.
Now it's time to cut the right way: 6-8 weeks, sustainable, no crash-and-rebound. This series isn't about research — it's about showing there's a way to get lean that actually sticks.
Following the whole thing start to finish. Day 1 starts now.
#reset #transformation #day1Ultimate Entrepreneur Fat Loss Stack! #peptidebros #shortsDerek Decoded2026-07-27 | Discover a fat loss stack designed for entrepreneurs that avoids harsh side effects. Boost energy, mitochondrial function, and suppress appetite without Clen, yohimbine, or ephedrine. #FatLoss #Entrepreneur #Supplements #Health #FitnessPeptide Bros Ep. 2 — Nasal GLPs, BAM15 & ATX-304, and Our First Nootropic Tier ListDerek Decoded2026-07-27 | Peptide Bros Episode 2 — Steve, Brandon, Jack, and Derek back for round two. This month we get into GLP alternatives and nasal delivery, mitochondrial uncouplers (BAM15 + ATX-304), the direction of blends and transdermals, and then run our first monthly four-compound nootropic tier list.
Timestamps: 00:00 – Cold open: research molecules and the false sense of security 01:04 – Intros and welcome to Episode 2, format for the monthly nootropic list 01:54 – Intranasal Xenatide: the GLP nasal spray and self-testing a very high dose 04:16 – On-demand vs. always-on appetite suppression, comparing to Reta 05:33 – Sending samples out, delivery mishaps, and the delivery-system angle 07:11 – SKU count, traveling with the nasal spray, and testing it in the field 08:50 – Eloralintide experience and Jack's ruptured appendix story 10:06 – Low-dose Eloralintide, coming off GLP, and the energy/lethargy difference 13:05 – Diminishing returns on high-dose Reta and building appetite-suppression stacks 14:14 – Combining Semi, Reta, and Elora across pathways for lower dosing 14:50 – Melanocortin pathway appetite suppression and intelligent stacking 15:40 – The case for polypharmacy done with intention 16:11 – Healing stacks, anti-inflammatory peptides, and bioregulators 17:42 – Where Reta ratios are headed and pin fatigue driving convenience 19:16 – Transdermals and nasals vs. injectables for daily-use compounds 20:53 – Topical TB500/BPC for scars — and an accidental hair-growth result 22:26 – 40 new SKUs, mostly non-injectable, and the shift away from pinning 23:50 – Blends, consistency, and why people quit before results show 25:34 – Shipping nightmares: customs, lost packages, and carrier horror stories 28:54 – Derek's new experiments: GC-1 for thyroid and cold intolerance 30:00 – L-THP for clearing stimulants before bed and improving sleep scores 32:13 – Notification overload, wind-down routines, and entrepreneur sleep 34:29 – Ipamorelin (IPAM) as a mitochondrial compound, naming confusion 35:47 – Mitochondrial support for long-hauler cases and Derek's own backstory 38:17 – What mitochondrial compounds actually show on bloodwork 38:42 – Naming the alphabet-soup compounds and expanding pathways 40:02 – Stacking BAM15 and ATX-304, localized cream vs. systemic dosing 42:38 – When to reach for BAM15, antioxidant support, and safety framing 43:51 – A microgram Slu/BAM mixture as a gentler entry option 45:05 – Formulating for tolerability: permeation enhancers and surface action 48:22 – Transdermal fat-loss combos: BAM15, 5-Amino-1MQ, NAD+ 50:41 – Slu-915 bioavailability results and comparing to BPC-332 52:28 – Steve's modern noninvasive fat-loss stack (Reta, MOTS-c, ATX) 54:29 – Seat-warmer tangent and BAM15 localized-heat jokes 56:04 – TIER LIST BEGINS: Brandon picks Fluvoxamine for long-term neurogenesis 58:22 – Comparing to Cerebrolysin, and why long-term beats short-term 59:48 – BDNF, withdrawal, and Steve's take on Fluvoxamine 01:00:29 – Jack's couch-potato experience and individual response 01:03:09 – Derek defers; Steve places Fluvoxamine in S tier 01:04:03 – The SSRI stigma vs. willingness to try research compounds 01:06:55 – Derek picks Adamax (1032): a Bromantane-like nootropic without the crash 01:08:42 – Rating Adamax and comparing the Cmax variants 01:10:45 – Jack's F-tier pick and his S tier (psilocybin), plus KW 01:12:17 – KW dopamine effects, dosing, and staying present on GLP 01:13:52 – KW vs. modafinil for wakefulness, and Steve frying his modafinil response 01:16:03 – Intranasal modafinil idea and the microgram dosing problem 01:17:26 – AM upper / PM downer bundle concept and Tianeptine 01:18:14 – Ranking KW, modafinil placement, and stims in the tier list 01:21:26 – Sermion / Nicergoline: "Cialis for your brain" 01:23:31 – Why Nicergoline is a B-tier add-on, not a mainline 01:24:39 – Nootropic blends (Blitz), formulating around the stimulant 01:26:41 – Wrapping the advanced nootropics: Adamax placement and libido stacks 01:27:27 – GB-115 as an underrated anti-anxiety option 01:29:52 – Growing the tier list monthly and closing out
Research use only. Not for human consumption.ACE031: Full BreakdownDerek Decoded2026-07-20 | ACE031, a powerful engineered protein blocking myostatin, shows promise for muscle growth. But human trials revealed significant risks like nosebleeds and spider veins due to side effects on other pathways. Understand the trade-offs. #ACE031 #MuscleGrowth #MyostatinInhibitor #ResearchChemicals #HealthRisks5-a1q_capsule_study_v2 (1080p).mp4 #shortsDerek Decoded2026-07-16 | Debunking myths around 5-Amino-1MQ capsules. A 2021 rodent study reveals oral bioavailability at 38.4% with a 6.8-hour half-life. Understand the science behind small molecule absorption. #5Amino1MQ #Bioavailability #Research #SupplementScience #RodentStudyTesamorelin vs. GH: For Visceral Fat #shortsDerek Decoded2026-07-09 | Discover if Tesamorelin or GH reigns supreme for visceral fat reduction. Understand the science behind growth hormone secretagogues and how to strategically use them to kickstart your fat loss journey. #Tesamorelin #GrowthHormone #PeptideBros #VisceralFat #FatLossIGF-1 Doesnt Keep Rising on Growth Hormone (Heres Why)Derek Decoded2026-07-07 | This video breaks down the receptor desensitization that occurs with exogenous GH or GH secretagogues. There are regulatory mechanisms at play. More does not always equal better. #igf1 #ghATX-304: My New Fat Loss Secret Revealed! #shortsDerek Decoded2026-07-04 | Exploring ATX-304, a less invasive mitochondrial uncoupler than BAM15 or DNP. Discover its potential for accelerated fat loss and mild effects, even at higher doses. Personal experience shared. #ATX304 #FatLoss #Mitochondria #Supplements #BiohackingTRT & Brain Health: Bodybuilding Productivity Secret Revealed #shortsDerek Decoded2026-07-04 | Pushing bodybuilding limits can destroy productivity and income. Dialing back to TRT, or even less, unlocks peak performance. Discover why your brain is the ultimate asset, not just muscles. #Bodybuilding #Entrepreneurship #Productivity #TRT #HealthKW Nootropic: The Ultimate Game Changer For Wakefulness!Derek Decoded2026-07-04 | Not medical advice. Research purposes only.
Cut caffeine intake drastically with KW dicussion. Ditch the 24/7 sleepiness from other methods. Cycling nootropics like Dihexa and Bromantane keeps them effective. #Nootropics #HealthHacks #Biohacking #Wellness #ProductivityBoostPeptide Bros Podcast #1 — Nootropics, Mitochondrial Stacks, GC-1 & Nasal DeliveryDerek Decoded2026-07-04 | Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0rFjErSaItruCjDckJG6l5?si=b39ZeuxOTCGenzDTSiwvQw
Timestamps: 00:00 – Intros: Steve, Brandon, Jack, and Derek, plus naming the podcast 07:00 – Mitochondrial uncoupler stacks and personal fat-loss experiences 14:00 – AMPK activation, protein synthesis tradeoffs, and training performance 19:00 – New candy-flavored liquid/dropper formulations without toxic solvents 22:00 – IPAM as a neuroprotective agent, steroid backstory 24:00 – Nasal mitochondrial compound reactions 25:00 – Pin fatigue and the rise of extreme polypharmacy 27:00 – Localized vs. systemic topical and transdermal delivery 28:58 – Social media saturation and AI-script peptide content fatigue 30:58 – Manufacturing philosophy: pharma-grade suspension systems vs. old solvent-heavy delivery methods 34:58 – Why community feedback is currently the only real-world data for new delivery formats 36:58 – Nasal spray dosing and bottle-overfill confusion explained 39:58 – Why testing sprays and transdermals is so difficult — solvents can destroy the active ingredient 43:58 – Testing costs for multi-ingredient amino blends 44:38 – China-sourced raw material vs. finished product manufacturing standards 48:58 – Bulk vial economics and quality control stories 49:58 – Certification vagueness — what ISO and CGMP claims actually mean 51:58 – Personal testing round: favorite nootropics and sleep compounds 53:58 – Wakefulness compound comparisons and reducing caffeine intake 56:58 – Bromantane sourcing history 57:58 – Sleep-support peptide experiences and interest in neuroprotective compounds 58:58 – Nasal sleep-regulator compounds 1:00:58 – Emotional and mood-regulation effects of bioregulator peptides 1:01:58 – Modafinil comparisons and tolerance buildup 1:02:58 – Stimulant and androgen neurotoxicity vs. entrepreneurial performance 1:08:58 – Balancing bodybuilding vs. business (a formative piece of advice) 1:10:19 – Manufacturing transparency and rebuilding consumer trust 1:12:19 – Favorite nootropic stacks and naming philosophy 1:16:19 – Fast-selling new compounds and a dopamine-recovery compound for stimulant users 1:20:19 – Dopamine-fast alternatives and stimulant substitution 1:23:19 – Deep dive on a thyroid-targeting compound and its metabolic effects 1:28:19 – GLP appetite suppression, thyroid interplay, and dose-escalation theories 1:29:19 – A liver/gut-support blend and community nicknaming 1:31:19 – Skepticism toward multi-ingredient blends and questionable compounding requests 1:32:19 – Honest take on SARMs and steroidal compounds 1:34:19 – Transdermal testosterone effectiveness and household cross-contamination risk 1:37:19 – Switching between GLP receptor pathways and oral small-molecule GLP experience 1:39:19 – Self-testing a nasal GLP compound at high dose 1:42:19 – Why nasal delivery tends to act faster and clear faster than other routes 1:44:19 – Combining appetite-suppressant and sleep compounds — polypharmacy wrap-up 1:44:49 – A cautionary GLP overdose story and dosing-escalation critique 1:45:19 – Teaser on an unreleased pharmaceutical-grade compound 1:47:19 – How we all first connected 1:49:19 – Skepticism toward a pop
Research use only. Not for human consumption.Inside ILS Labs (San Diego, CA) - Full WalkthroughDerek Decoded2026-06-30 | **ILS Lab Full Walkthrough | Inside a Third-Party Peptide Testing Facility**
https://stan.store/derekdecoded
I got the full tour of the ILS testing lab out in San Diego. This is a smaller, newer lab than Janoshik out in Prague, but I'll take the chance to tour any facility popping up in the research space — because you deserve to know how your peptides are actually being tested. We walk through the entire process: intake and chain of custody, the PCR workstations, the HPLC machines, the mass spec, and the heavy metals setup. I also sit down at the end to give my honest take on ILS — turnaround time, methodologies, communication, and what separates a newer lab from a more established one.
ILS promises 7X testing: identification, net content, net purity, sterility, endotoxins, heavy metals, and conformity.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 – Intro: Why I tour every lab 0:22 – Main testing facility & sample intake 0:40 – Sample staging & iPad workflow stations 0:59 – AirClean 600 PCR workstations (sample prep) 1:20 – Refrigeration units 1:45 – Workstations & lab layout 2:06 – HPLC machines & supplies 2:27 – How the HPLC runs (injection, purity & content) 3:22 – Live HPLC graph plotting 3:41 – Intake & chain of custody (client info) 4:18 – 360 of the main room 4:36 – Secondary testing room (vertical footage) 4:56 – Cannabis testing history 5:15 – Mass spectrometry (confirming Dalton weight) 6:01 – Heavy metals testing (ICP-MS) 6:47 – Sample prep & dissolving station 7:33 – Secondary PCR station (rapid sterility) 7:53 – Scales & supplies 8:19 – AOC-20s Plus autosampler 8:38 – My honest review of ILS begins 8:57 – The 7X testing standard explained 9:18 – Turnaround time & taking on clients 10:02 – Communication challenges 10:20 – Testing methodologies (chemist breakdown) 10:42 – Why capsules, tablets & nasal sprays are hard to test 11:25 – Non-water-soluble compounds (Di Hexa) 12:12 – The L-carnitine problem & filtering noise 12:52 – Paying for lab experience 13:15 – Chain of custody & sterility 13:37 – Balancing client intake vs. standards 14:17 – Final thoughts on the tour
🔬 THE 7X TESTING STANDARD ✔ Identification ✔ Net Content ✔ Net Purity ✔ Sterility ✔ Endotoxins ✔ Heavy Metals ✔ Conformity
Research use only. Not for human consumption.Janoshiks Method for Unknown Peptides and Research CompoundsDerek Decoded2026-06-24 | How does a lab test a compound that's brand new — one with no existing reference standard to compare against? We put that question to Janoshik Analytical during our Prague lab tour.
In this video, Janoshik walks through their process for testing new and unknown research compounds: how they develop and validate methods from scratch, how they identify and characterize a compound without a pre-existing standard, and what separates a reliable result from a guess. This is the part of the analytical process most people never see, and it explains a lot about why method development matters when new peptides hit the market.
This is part of our ongoing Janoshik lab tour series covering HPLC methodology, COA interpretation, endotoxin testing, and sterility standards.
Research use only. Not for human consumption. Not medical advice.HPLC Machines Explained: Steroids vs Peptides at JanoshikDerek Decoded2026-06-24 | We toured Janoshik Analytical in Prague and asked a question that comes up constantly in the research community: how do peptides actually get tested in HPLC machines?
In this video, Janoshik walks through the analytical reasoning behind separating their testing workflows — the methodology differences between steroid and peptide analysis, how column and detection requirements differ, and why a single setup can't accurately handle both compound classes. If you've ever wondered what actually goes into a COA, this breaks down part of the process from inside the lab.
This is a continuation of our Janoshik lab tour series covering HPLC methodology, COA interpretation, endotoxin testing, and sterility standards.
Research use only. Not for human consumption. Not medical advice.What Percentage Purity Is Actually Acceptable For Peptides? #janoshikDerek Decoded2026-06-24 | What percentage purity is actually acceptable for peptides?
We break down the science behind pharmaceutical grade peptides and why testing results can vary significantly. This analysis explains the specific limits for large molecules and what those percentages actually mean for your results.
https://stan.store/peptidepriceCan You Shake Your Peptides? Peter Magic Says It May Help w/ AODDerek Decoded2026-06-23 | #peptides #shakingpeptides #degradation
I've been getting this question constantly, so I went straight to the source and asked Peter Magic to clear it up once and for all: does shaking peptides damage them?
The answer: shake away.
Peter has never been able to test or measure ANY degradation from shaking peptides. Not once. The "don't shake, only swirl" advice that gets passed around as gospel? He's never found data to back it up.
And here's the part that genuinely surprised me. With AOD specifically, shaking might actually help. Peter explained that because of how the amino acid chains interact, agitation can keep the peptide from gelling. So the thing people are afraid of doing might be the thing that keeps your reconstituted vial in better shape.
I dropped a clip below of Peter shaking a vial like it was money to drive the point home.
Bottom line: you can shake your peptides as much as you want. Reconstitute, mix it up, get it fully dissolved, and stop stressing about it.
Research use only. Not for human consumption.Janoshik Lab Tour: Chain of Custody & How Samples Are TestedDerek Decoded2026-06-21 | Inside Janoshik Analytical: a behind-the-scenes look at how research samples are processed and tested. In this segment of the full lab tour, Peter walks me through the chain of custody from the moment samples are intaked, then into the actual lab where content and purity testing happens.
We cover sample intake and QR code tracking, how multiple samples get separated by test type instead of batched together, the customs requirements around scheduled substances and photographed liquidation, peptide prep and refrigerated storage, sample retention windows for retesting, and the current turnaround times Janoshik is running.
This is part of an ongoing series bringing more transparency to the peptide space by showing how third-party testing labs actually operate.
Chapters: Soon
For research use only. Not for human consumption.Peptide Degradation: Less Scary Than You ThinkDerek Decoded2026-06-21 | Peptide Degradation: Less Scary Than You Think
In this clip, Peter breaks down what actually happens when a peptide degrades and drops a few percentage points in purity — say from 99% down to around 97% over a couple of months. The short version: there's no inherent danger.
The changes you're seeing are mostly things like oxidation, which by themselves aren't harmful. He notes that in some cases degradation could reduce the efficiency of the compound, and in rarer cases a degraded product could turn out to be more immunogenic than the original. But as a general rule of thumb, a small drop in purity isn't cause for worry — there's no built-in danger that comes from a peptide degrading a couple of points. Research use only. Not for human consumption.Peter Magic Answers The Most Asked Questions In The Research SpaceDerek Decoded2026-06-20 | Janoshik Q&A: COAs, Purity, Sterility & Testing Standards — Part 2
I sat down with Janoshik to dig into the questions our community asks most — how purity is actually determined on blends, why endotoxin testing matters, the truth about degradation studies, and how a lab handles 1,000+ samples a day. Research use only. Not for human consumption.
Socials: https://stan.store/derekdecoded
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 — Can you show purity content/percentage on a COA for blends? 00:57 — How do you handle purity on blends with multiple compounds? 01:31 — Why defining "purity" on raw powders is so difficult (content vs. purity) 04:03 — How finished vials differ (fillers, mannitol, why you can't weigh content) 06:25 — Have you looked into ISO accreditation for HPLC testing? 09:54 — What's the most commonly tested peptide panel? 10:55 — Most tested peptides (tirzepatide, retatrutide, BPC-157, semaglutide) 12:01 — Do you offer rapid sterility (PCR) vs. 14-day? 14:44 — How much equipment do you have running? (HPLCs, total value) 15:21 — Is endotoxin testing actually useful? 16:52 — Internal sample tracking and why clients can't access it 20:55 — Why pictures are now default on COAs 22:56 — Will you edit a COA if a client claims a mistake? 24:22 — Sterile water vs. bacteriostatic water (degradation question) 25:43 — Bacteriostatic water studies (benzyl alcohol evaporation) 26:30 — Does shaking peptides vs. rolling matter? (including AOD gelling) 27:51 — Tesamorelin refrigerated vs. room temp — can misfolding be detected? 29:50 — How are new labs getting their methodologies? 32:08 — Where do most samples come from? (US vs. international) 33:00 — Why prices increased and how it affected smaller labs 34:40 — How long Janoshik has been testing (15 years) 35:31 — Should you worry when a peptide degrades a few %? 36:36 — Why GH purity runs lower (recombinant vs. solid-state synthesis) 38:38 — What clients receive on a COA and why raw data is kept minimal 40:58 — Identifying Adamax variants via mass spec (amidate, N-acetyl, etc.) 43:55 — Testing capsules and tablets (net content vs. "purity") 46:14 — Testing nasal sprays, cosmetics, creams, and serums 48:57 — Why "dirty" samples go on the old reliable HPLCInside Janoshik: Full Lab Tour UneditedDerek Decoded2026-06-20 | All My Socials: https://stan.store/derekdecoded
Go behind the scenes at Janoshik Analytical in Prague for a complete walkthrough of how one of the most trusted testing labs in the research peptide space actually operates. From sterility and endotoxin testing to HPLC purity analysis, mass spectrometry, heavy metals screening, and a million-dollar NMR machine, this tour covers the full sample journey — from the mountains of mail arriving daily to the final report sent to clients. Along the way we get candid insight into testing standards, why heavy metal "fear mongering" is often misleading, how the lab handles unknown compounds and new blends, and the real-world challenges of scaling to 1,000+ samples a day.
Research use only. Not for human consumption.
0:00 — Lab origins & expansion (taking over the bankrupt floor)
39:38 — The five-person unpacking team (and the kindergarten)
40:55 — Liquid nitrogen delivery & the NMR machine
41:43 — What NMR tests & why it doesn't need a standard
43:39 — Using NMR for novel compounds & standard verification
44:50 — Measuring TFA (trifluoroacetic acid) in peptides
45:34 — The million-dollar machine & how it stays cold
47:01 — Wrap-upPeter Magic Explains Heavy Metals Testing (Useless?)Derek Decoded2026-06-20 | One of the best breakdowns you're going hear about what heavy metals testing actually is and why Peter thinks it's not necessarily useful for most peptides.
#petermagic #janoshik #heavymetals #testingHow to Tell If Your Adamax Is Real or Not? #janoshik #petermagic #adamaxDerek Decoded2026-06-18 | ...Restoring Gut Health After Antibiotics (BPC + KPV)Derek Decoded2026-06-01 | In this episode, we tackle the crucial topic of restoring proper gut health after a course of antibiotics. We'll explore how antibiotics impact your gut microbiome and contribute to gut inflammation, detailing a three-layer recovery system designed to address these issues. Learn about recovery tools, including probiotics and specific capsules, to support your digestive health and immune system. Drop your follow-up questions in the comments; I'll pull the best ones for the next round.Research Radar Ep. 5: Setting Your Baseline for Protein, Carbs & FatsDerek Decoded2026-05-27 | https://stan.store/derekdecoded
Everybody wants shortcuts.
Peptides. Fat loss tools. Performance enhancers. Optimization.
But if you don’t know your maintenance calories, your macros, or how to structure your diet… none of that matters.
In this episode, Derek and Gavin break down the exact nutrition framework they use to build sustainable diets for fat loss, performance, and body composition.
Topics covered: 00:00 Why nutrition comes before optimization 01:20 Hidden calories that destroy progress 03:45 How to actually track food correctly 09:00 Finding your maintenance calories 12:00 Why rapid early weight loss is usually water 14:45 Protein targets explained 19:30 Fats, hormones, and how low is too low 22:00 Carb timing around workouts 25:30 Fiber, digestion, hydration, and gut health 33:30 Example meal structures and daily routines
Whether you're trying to lose fat, recomp, improve performance, or just stop guessing with your diet, this episode gives you the baseline.
Drop questions below for future episodes.
#ResearchRadar #Nutrition #Macros #FatLoss #Bodybuilding #Protein #Dieting #FitnessPodcastWhat is Endotoxin Testing and Why There Is No Pass/ Fail #endotoxins #testingDerek Decoded2026-05-20 | ...Research Radar Q&A Session | Episode 3Derek Decoded2026-05-02 | In this episode, I'm tackling questions submitted directly by the Research Radar community covering protocols, formulation, vendor practices, washout strategies, and where the peptide space is headed. No fluff, no hype — just honest answers calibrated to the evidence.
For research use only. Not for human consumption. Not medical advice.
⏱ TOPICS COVERED
00:00 - Peptide Serums, Peptides, and Waters 03:14 - Peptide Nasal Spray Guidelines 06:30 - Peptide Nasal Spray Efficacy 09:09 - Peptide Washout Periods 12:49 - GLPs Drive Peptide Popularity 16:05 - Peptide Protocols and Cycling 19:12 - NAD+ Bioavailability and Serum 22:20 - Lab Testing and Buccal Strips 25:29 - 5-Amino-1MQ for Fat Loss 29:36 - Beginner Peptide Mistakes
🎙 LISTEN OR WATCH Spotify, YouTube, Substack, and posted in the Research Radar Skool community
🔬 RESOURCES https://stan.store/derekdecoded
Drop your follow-up questions in the comments. I'll pull the best ones for the next round. — Derek
https://stan.store/peptidepriceNew Study Review on GLP-1s and Alzheimer’sDerek Decoded2026-04-30 | ...