Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in response to low oxygen levels in the cell, a condition known as hypoxia. HIF is a key regulator of cellular and systemic oxygen homeostasis, controlling a wide range of genes involved in processes such as angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, metabolism, and cell survival. When oxygen levels in the cell decrease, HIF is stabilized and translocated to the nucleus where it binds to specific DNA sequences, known as hypoxia response elements (HREs), to activate the expression of target genes. This activation allows the cell to adapt and survive in low-oxygen environments. Research in the field of HIF has provided important insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular responses to hypoxia and has implications for understanding diseases such as cancer, ischemic diseases, and pulmonary disorders. Targeting HIF signaling pathways has also become an important area of research for potential therapeutic interventions in these diseases.