beta-Estradiol (C15-1244-363)

General description

β-Estradiol or estradiol-17 β (E2) is secreted majorly by the large preovulatory follicles in the ovary. In addition, estradiol can be synthesized de novo from cholesterol have androgens synthesized from cholesterol. The aromatization of androgen by enzyme aromatase (P450arom) results in the β-estradiol production.

Application

β-Estradiol has been used:

• as a component of Dulbecco′s modified Eagle medium (DMEM) for culturing mammary tumor cells
• as a oestrogenic compound for testing neuroprotective effects
• as a component of medium199 for culturing oocytes

β-Estradiol is used to study cell differentiation and transformations (tumorigenicity).

Biochem/physiol Actions

β-Estradiol (E2) is a major premenopausal hormone in women and is essential for spermiogenesis, sperm maturation and motility in men. Cultured bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) have ability to synthesize E2 and could be exploited for treating estrogen deficiency. It mediates physiological functions through estrogen receptor (ER) α and ERβ.

The major estrogen secreted by the premenopausal ovary. Estrogens direct the development of the female phenotype in embryogenesis and during puberty by regulating gene transcription and, thus, protein synthesis. It also induces the production of gonadotropins which, in turn, induce ovulation. Exposure to estradiol increases breast cancer incidence and proliferation.

Physical form

powder-RT; stock-frozen in working aliquots, avoid repeated freeze/thaw

Reconstitution

To prepare a 20 μg/ml stock solution, add 1 ml absolute ethanol to 1 mg β-estradiol; gently swirl to dissolve; add 49 ml sterile medium while mixing.