Hypoxia-Inducible Factors and Cancer.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) mediate the transcription of hundreds of genes that allow cells to adapt to hypoxic environments. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about mechanisms of HIF activation in cancer, as well as downstream cancer-promoting consequences such as altered substrate metabolism, angiogenesis, and cell differentiation. In addition, we examine the proposed relationship between respiratory-related hypoxia, HIFs, and cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS: HIFs are increased in many forms of cancer, and portend a poor prognosis and response to therapy.

CONCLUSION: HIFs play a critical role in various stages of carcinogenesis. HIF and its transcription targets may be useful as biomarkers of disease and therapeutic targets for cancer.