The Effect of HIF-2α on the Development of Inflammation

Hypoxia-inducible factor-2α (HIF-2α), a key regulator of cellular adaptation to hypoxia, modulates cellular metabolism, allowing cells to survive under hypoxic conditions. In immune responses, infected or inflamed tissues often exhibit hypoxia, and HIF-2α plays a vital role in helping immune cells adapt. HIF-2α also plays a dual and context-dependent role in inflammation. HIF-2α exhibits both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects in inflammation depending on cell type, disease microenvironment, and signaling pathways. This article describes how HIF-2α regulates immune cell function and its essential role in inflammation, as well as the effects of HIF-2α on the development of inflammation through different signaling pathways. Finally, it explores the potential of HIF-2α as a therapeutic target.