hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a protein that helps our body respond to low oxygen levels. When oxygen is scarce, HIF activates genes that promote the formation of new blood vessels, increase oxygen delivery, and adjust energy use, helping cells survive and function. Under normal oxygen conditions, HIF is degraded, but during hypoxia (low oxygen), it stabilizes and moves into the cell nucleus to turn on these protective genes. HIF plays a vital role in processes like adaptation to high altitudes, wound healing, and can be involved in diseases such as cancer.