To review the role of hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) in hypoxic-ischemic injury and its repair, and to analyze the possible mechanisms. Methods Recent l iterature on HIF-1α and its role in hypoxic-ischemic injury was reviewed and analyzed. Results HIF-1α was involved in the hypoxic-ischemic injury of various organs or tissues and their repair processes. Conclusion HIF-1α has a potential to treat common cl inical hypoxic-ischemic injuries and has a promisingfuture for appl ication.