Research Use Only
Research Use Only Policy
Last updated: April 2026
Ascend Research supplies analytical-grade biochemical reference standards intended strictly for in vitro laboratory research purposes. They are not for human consumption and are not for human or animal consumption, veterinary use, therapeutic use, diagnostic use, or any other clinical or commercial application. They are not a drug, food, supplement, or medical device, and have not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
1. Definition of Research Use
"Research Use Only" (RUO) means the products are intended solely for laboratory research - including in-vitro cell culture work, biochemical assays, and animal-model studies conducted by qualified researchers within an appropriately equipped research facility. RUO products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition.
2. Who Our Products Are For
Our products are sold to:
- Academic research institutions and universities
- Private research laboratories, analytical laboratories, and biotechnology companies
- Contract research organizations (CROs)
- Independent researchers who are 21 years of age or older and have the facilities and expertise to handle research compounds safely
By purchasing from Ascend Research, you confirm that you are a qualified researcher or institutional professional, that all products will be used strictly for lawful research purposes, and that you accept full responsibility for compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
3. Prohibited Uses
Our products are not intended for, and may not be used for:
- Human consumption, injection, inhalation, topical application, or any other human administration
- Animal consumption or veterinary treatment
- Therapeutic, diagnostic, or clinical use of any kind
- Food, dietary supplement, or cosmetic use
- Resale to end consumers for personal use
- Any use that would violate FDA, DEA, state, or local regulations
4. Age Verification
All purchasers must be 21 years of age or older. A 21+ age verification is required before accessing our product catalog. We reserve the right to refuse or cancel any order if we reasonably believe the purchaser is under 21 or intends to use products outside of the research contexts permitted by this policy.
5. Safe Handling
Research compounds may be hazardous if mishandled. Purchasers are responsible for:
- Reviewing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) before handling any compound
- Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, safety glasses, and lab coats
- Conducting work in an appropriately ventilated laboratory environment
- Storing compounds per the Storage instructions on each product page
- Disposing of unused material and packaging in accordance with local hazardous waste regulations
6. Certificates of Analysis
Every lot supplied by Ascend Research is tested by an independent analytical laboratory on a seven-test panel: peptide purity and net content by reversed-phase HPLC, identity by HPLC retention time, heavy metals by ICP-MS, a PCR sterility screen, bacterial endotoxin, and a foreign substance screen. Batch-linked Certificates of Analysis are published at /pages/coa and on every product page.
7. Regulatory Compliance
Compliance with federal, state, and local laws governing the purchase, handling, storage, and use of research chemicals is the sole responsibility of the purchaser. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Purchasers should consult their institution's compliance office or legal counsel before ordering.
8. No Medical Advice
Information on this site - including product pages, blog articles, research summaries, and customer support communications - is provided for educational and research-reference purposes only. Nothing on this site is medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical questions.
9. Liability & Hold Harmless
By purchasing from Ascend Research, you agree to hold the company, its officers, employees, and suppliers harmless from any claims, damages, losses, or liabilities arising from the handling, storage, or use of our products. You assume all risk associated with the handling and use of research compounds.
10. Violations
We actively monitor for misuse of our products and reserve the right to terminate accounts, refuse future orders, and report suspected violations to appropriate regulatory authorities. Repeat or egregious violations of this policy may result in permanent banning and legal action.
11. Contact
Questions about this policy?Ascend Research[Registered business address]support@ascendresearchco.com