Louis T. DiFazio

Hypoxia-inducible-factor-1 in trauma and critical care

ABSTRACT HIF‐1 is a ubiquitous signaling molecule constantly expressed by the body, but is degraded during normoxic conditions. In hypoxic conditions, it persists and is active. Hypoxia is often associated with trauma due to interrupted blood flow, inflammation or other reasons, causing HIF‐1 to be active in signaling and recovery. In this review, the function of HIF‐1 is examined, as well as its clinical significance with regard to trauma and critical care. Using this information, we then identify potential points of treatment and intervention. HighlightsHIF‐1 is active in hypoxia and inactive in normoxia.Trauma and tissue damage can cause hypoxia and activate HIF‐1.Systemic inflammation and infection can result in hypoxia and activate HIF‐1.HIF‐1 induces recovery in hypoxia and inflammation.There is potential for pharmaceutical HIF‐1 activation to be therapeutic.