Hydrogen peroxide induced activation of gene expression in mammalian cells using boronate estrone derivatives.

Keeping the boron out of the ER: A genetic switch was engineered that activates gene expression in the presence of H(2)O(2). The use of a boronate group on an estrone molecule allows for activation of gene expression through binding of the estrogen receptor only when the boron group is oxidized by H(2)O(2). This sensor is highly sensitive and specific for H(2)O(2).