4-OHT: Reliable Induction for CreERT2 Gene Control
★ Introduction ★ Benefits ★ Applications ★ Validation ★ Try 4-OHT ★
4-Hydroxytamoxifen (4-OHT): Reliable Control for Inducible Gene Expression
4-Hydroxytamoxifen (4-OHT) is the active metabolite of tamoxifen, widely used for precise temporal control of gene expression in CreERT2 systems. Unlike tamoxifen, it does not require metabolic activation, enabling faster, more consistent recombination in both in vitro and in vivo models.
Hello Bio 4-OHT delivers reliable, reproducible performance across applications, while offering significant cost savings compared to standard suppliers, without compromising on quality.
Choose from three (E)/(Z) isomer compositions of 4-OHT to suit your application.
Choose the Right 4-OHT for Your Experiment
- 50:50 E/Z mixture
Best for exploratory work and non-critical experiments where cost is a priority and precise control is less important. - ≥70% Z isomer (recommended for most applications)
The optimal balance of performance and practicality. Provides strong estrogen receptor binding and reliable CreERT2 activation for standard in vitro and in vivo studies - ~100% Z isomer
Maximises biological activity and consistency. Ideal for sensitive systems, low-dose experiments, and studies requiring precise temporal control.
Why is Z Isomer Content Important?
4-hydroxytamoxifen (4-OHT) exists as E and Z geometric (stereoisomeric) forms due to restricted rotation around a double bond. The Z isomer is more biologically active, showing stronger binding affinity for the estrogen receptor than the E isomer.
For applications such as CreERT2 recombinase systems, a higher proportion of the Z isomer ensures:
- More efficient receptor binding
- More consistene recombinantion
- Improved reproducibility across experiments
Some interconversion between E and Z isomers can occur under experimental conditions; therefore, preparations containing a high percentage of the Z isomer (typically ~70% or greater) are commonly used to maintain consistent biological activity.
E/Z Isomer Composition: What Should You Choose?
| Feature | 50:50 E/Z Mix | ~70% Z Isomer | ~100% Z Isomer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological activity | Moderate | High | Maximal |
| Estrogen receptor binding | Reduced (mixed activity) | Strong | Highest affinity |
| CreERT2 activation efficiency | Variable | Reliable | Highly consistent |
| Reproducibility | Lower | Good | Excellent |
| Typical use | Screening, non-critical experiments | Standard research applications | Precision studies or low-dose work |
| Cost | Lower | Moderate | Higher |
| Key consideration | Less control over activity | Balanced performance and practicality | Maximum control and sensitivity |
Why Researchers Choose Our 4-OHT
- Validated in CreERT2 systems: Reliable recombination in transgenic models and cell assays
- Consistent performance: Reproducible activation with low background signal
- Cost-effective: Typically ~50% lower than standard suppliers
- Trusted by researchers: Used in peer-reviewed publications and long-term studies
Applications of 4-OHT
- Inducible gene expression: Activation of CreERT2 systems in vitro and in vivo
- Transgenic mouse models: Temporal control of recombination in specific tissues
- Cell signaling studies: Controlled activation of downstream pathways
- Developmental biology: Study gene function at defined timepoints
Trusted by Scientists Worldwide
★★★★★ 27 verified 5-star reviews for 4-Hydroxytamoxifen ≥70% (HB6040)
"Great product. We've been using HelloBio's 4-OHT for the past 3 years and it works just as good as other vendors, but it is better priced and always in stock. The product is great for CRE-ERT2 recombination in transgenic mice and is easy to dissolve into solution."
"Works as expected -- it efficiently induced recombination in the TRAP2 mouse model."
"Cheaper and possibly better compared to other vendor. From our test comparing with the Sigma version, we find the turn on is stronger and in fewer neurons, so possibly it is more specific or less sensitive/less background. Fits our application nicely."
"Great reasonably priced product. Very reasonably priced and works well for our research."
"Good quality and price. We've used this to induce recombination in cre-ERT2 mice via IP injection, it works well with minimal side effects. Also price is reasonable in comparison with other manufacturers."
Cited in peer-reviewed research:
- Dunning JL et al. (2024) Molecular Psychiatry PubMed ID: 38965421
- Ziobro P et al. (2024) Current Biology PubMed ID: 38301649
- Targowska-Duda KM et al (2024) Pain 165 : 685-697 PubMedID: 37820238
- Mak A et al (2024) eNeuro 11 PubMedID: 38902023
- Louie JD et al (2023) Development (Cambridge, England) 150 PubMedID: 37260223
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