protein that helps cells adapt to low oxygen levels
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) is a protein that helps cells respond to low oxygen levels (hypoxia). It activates various genes that enable cells to adapt to hypoxic conditions, such as those involved in increasing blood supply and altering metabolism. This protein is crucial in processes like wound healing and can also play a role in diseases like cancer, where it can help tumors grow by improving their oxygen supply.