positive regulation of cellular response to hypoxia

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the frequency, rate or extent of cellular response to hypoxia. [GOC:TermGenie, GOC:yaf]

Positive regulation of cellular response to hypoxia is a crucial biological process that enables cells to adapt to low oxygen conditions, commonly known as hypoxia. This complex regulatory network involves a cascade of molecular events, primarily triggered by the accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1).

Under normal oxygen levels, HIF-1 is rapidly degraded through the action of prolyl hydroxylase enzymes (PHDs). However, in hypoxic conditions, the activity of PHDs is inhibited, leading to the stabilization of HIF-1. Stabilized HIF-1 then translocates to the nucleus, where it forms a heterodimer with the HIF-1β subunit. This HIF-1α/β heterodimer acts as a transcription factor, binding to specific DNA sequences known as hypoxia response elements (HREs) located in the promoter regions of target genes.

The activation of these target genes initiates a complex cellular response to hypoxia, encompassing a variety of physiological and metabolic adaptations. These responses include:

1. **Increased production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis):** HIF-1 activates the transcription of erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. This enhances the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

2. **Enhanced angiogenesis:** HIF-1 promotes the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) through the upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This increases blood flow to hypoxic tissues, improving oxygen delivery.

3. **Metabolic reprogramming:** HIF-1 induces a shift in cellular metabolism towards glycolysis, a less efficient but oxygen-independent energy production pathway. This allows cells to generate ATP even in the absence of sufficient oxygen.

4. **Cell survival and proliferation:** HIF-1 can activate pathways that promote cell survival and proliferation under hypoxic conditions. This can be beneficial in situations like wound healing, but it can also contribute to the development of cancer.

5. **Regulation of immune responses:** HIF-1 can influence immune cell activity and the inflammatory response in hypoxic environments.

Overall, the positive regulation of cellular response to hypoxia is a critical process that ensures cell survival and function in low oxygen environments. This complex regulatory network plays a crucial role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and responding to various physiological and pathological conditions.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (42)