Diabetes mellitus(DM)stands as a multifaceted metabolic disorder marked by heightened blood glucose levels and an elusive pathogenesis.Hypoxia-inducible factor-1(HIF-1)emerges as a pivotal transcription factor triggered within hy-poxic environments.Its involvement in the pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications is instrumental,as it orchestrates the hypoxia adaptive response,governs glucose and lipid metabolism,and influences the function of islet β cells.This article meticulously exam-ines the structural and functional aspects of HIF-1,shedding light on its role in the pathogenesis of diabetes and associated complica-tions.By unraveling these intricate connections,it not only enhances our understanding of the disease but also propels innovative avenues for the exploration of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies for diabetes and its complications.