Hypoxia in Cancer and Fibrosis: Part of the Problem and Part of the Solution

Adaptive responses to hypoxia are involved in the progression of lung cancer and pulmonary fibrosis. However, it has not been pointed out that hypoxia may be the link between these diseases. As tumors or scars expand, a lack of oxygen results in the activation of the hypoxia response, promoting cell survival even during chronic conditions. The role of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) as master regulators of this adaptation is crucial in both lung cancer and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which have shown the active transcriptional signature of this pathway. Emerging evidence suggests that interconnected feedback loops such as metabolic changes, fibroblast differentiation or extracellular matrix remodeling contribute to HIF overactivation, making it an irreversible phenomenon. This review will focus on the role of HIF signaling and its possible overlapping in order to identify new opportunities in therapy and regeneration.

Automated summary

Adaptive responses to hypoxia play crucial roles in the progression of lung cancer and pulmonary fibrosis, with hypoxia potentially serving as the link between these diseases. The key role of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and interconnected feedback loops contribute to HIF overactivation, making it an irreversible phenomenon. Further research may identify new opportunities in therapy and regeneration by focusing on HIF signaling and its potential overlap in these diseases.