Pathogenic role of HIF-1α in prostate hyperplasia in the presence of chronic inflammation

► We induce prostate hyperplasia in rats by injecting LPS into prostates. ► Cytokines secreted from activated macrophages stimulate the HIF-1 signaling pathway. ► HIF-1 drives EMT in prostate epithelial cells. ► HIF-1 inhibitors block EMT and hyperplasia in LPS-treated prostates. ► This study will open a new concept about the pathogenesis of inflammatory BPH.