Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in cellular responses to low oxygen levels (hypoxia). It is composed of two subunits: HIF-1α and HIF-1β. Under normal oxygen conditions, HIF-1α is rapidly degraded, but in hypoxic conditions, it stabilizes, translocates to the nucleus, and dimerizes with HIF-1β to activate the transcription of various genes involved in processes such as angiogenesis, metabolism, and cell survival.
HIF-1α is often overexpressed due to the hypoxic microenvironment created by rapid tumor growth and inadequate blood supply. This upregulation allows cancer cells to adapt to low oxygen levels.
HIF-1 regulates the expression of numerous target genes involved in angiogenesis (e.g., VEGF), glucose metabolism (e.g., GLUT1), cell survival, and invasion. The activation of these genes promotes tumor growth and metastasis.
However, HIF-1 is expressed in pathological conditions such as cancer and obesity.
(Will delete Record if Target field = "Delete") Home