Impact of HIF-1α and hypoxia on fungal growth characteristics and fungal immunity.

ABSTRACT

Human pathogenic fungi are highly adaptable to a changing environment. The ability to adjust to low oxygen conditions is crucial for colonization and infection of the host. Recently, the impact of mammalian hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) on fungal immunity has emerged. In this review, the role of hypoxia and HIF-1α in fungal infections is discussed regarding the innate immune response.