HIF1-a upregulation induces proinflammatory factors to boost host killing capacity after Aspergillus fumigatus exposure

Aims: HIF1-alpha is an important transcription factor in the regulation of the immune response. The protective function of HIF1-alpha in the host epithelial immune response to Aspergillus fumigatus requires further clarification. Methods: In this study we demonstrated the effect of upregulation of HIF1-alpha expression in A549 cells and mouse airway cells exposed to A. fumigatus in vivo. Results: The killing capacity was enhanced by boosting proinflammatory factors both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, airway inflammation was reduced in the HIF1-alpha-upregulated mice. Conclusion: We identified a protective role for HIF1-alpha in anti-A. fumigatus immunity. Modulation of HIF1-alpha might be a target for the development of aspergillosis therapy.