CAS Number¶
Definition¶
A CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) Registry Number is a unique numerical identifier assigned to every chemical substance described in the scientific literature, including peptides.
Overview¶
CAS numbers provide a unique, unambiguous identifier for chemical substances, avoiding confusion from different naming conventions or synonyms. They are widely used in procurement, regulatory documentation, and database searches.
Technical Explanation¶
Format: A CAS number has three parts separated by hyphens: XXXXXX-YY-Z - The first part contains up to 7 digits - The second part has 2 digits - The third digit is a check digit for validation
For Peptides: - Not all synthetic peptides have CAS numbers (some are novel or proprietary) - Peptide CAS numbers identify the specific sequence and modification state - Different salt forms of the same peptide may have different CAS numbers
Validation: CAS numbers can be validated using the check digit algorithm. Verified CAS numbers are essential for proper chemical inventory management.
Importance in Peptide Documentation¶
CAS numbers are included in product documentation (TDS, SDS) to provide an unambiguous reference for chemical identification. They facilitate ordering, inventory tracking, and regulatory compliance.
Related Terms¶
Frequently Asked Questions¶
Q: Do all research peptides have CAS numbers? A: Most well-established peptides have CAS numbers. Novel peptides or newly developed analogs may not yet have assigned CAS numbers.
Q: Can two peptides share the same CAS number? A: No. Each distinct chemical substance has a unique CAS number. Different salt forms or modifications of the same base peptide receive different CAS numbers.