Stem cells, telomerase regulation and the hypoxic state.

The cellular response to a hypoxic environment is regulated by hypoxia inducible factors. Hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (Hif1alpha) in particular, is tightly regulated by the hypoxic environment in most cells, and plays an important role in regulating the stress response of cells to hypoxia. Interestingly, substantial observations are now emerging that point to an important role for Hif1alpha in stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, neuronal stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells. Notably, Hif1alpha has been shown to enhance self renewal of stem cells, mediate a shift to glycolytic metabolism, and promote telomerase expression.