Hypoxia is a characteristic feature of numerous diseases, including metabolic bone disease, solid tumors, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration and inflammation. It is also a risk factor for a poor prognosis in various diseases. Hypoxia‑inducible factor‑1α (HIF‑1α) is activated by hypoxia to regulate a series of pathophysiological pathways, which is of utmost significance for maintaining body homeostasis. The present review highlights the role of the HIF‑1α in oxygen, bone and iron homeostasis, and alludes on the biological complexity and dual functions of HIF‑1α regulation. In addition, the pathophysiological significance of HIF‑1α in bone formation, bone absorption, angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, oxidative stress, energy metabolism, iron death, etc., is discussed An accurate understanding of all these processes may aid in the identification of possible therapeutic targets that may then be used in the treatment of related diseases. However, further studies are required to unravel the extensive complexity of HIF‑1α regulation and to develop more precise treatment strategies.
Keywords: bone homeostasis; hypoxia; hypoxia‑inducible factor‑1α; iron homeostasis; oxygen homeostasis.