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World Journal of Emergency Medicine ›› 2012, Vol. 3 ›› Issue (3): 165-171.doi: 10.5847/wjem.j.issn.1920-8642.2012.03.001

• Review Article •     Next Articles

Novel insights for high mobility group box 1 protein-mediated cellular immune response in sepsis:A systemic review

Li-feng Huang, Yong-ming Yao(), Zhi-yong Sheng   

  1. Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Burns Institute, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
  • Received:2012-03-02 Accepted:2012-07-13 Online:2012-09-15 Published:2012-09-15
  • Contact: Yong-ming Yao E-mail:c_ff@sina.com

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is a highly conserved, ubiquitous protein in the nuclei and cytoplasm of nearly all cell types. HMGB1 is secreted into the extracellular milieu and acts as a proinflammatory cytokine. In this article we reviewed briefly the cellular immune response mediated by HMGB1 in inflammation and sepsis.

METHODS: This systemic review is mainly based on our own work and other related reports.

RESULTS: HMGB1 can actively affect the immune functions of many types of cells including T lymphocytes, regulatory T cells (Tregs), dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and natural killer cells (NK cells). Various cellular responses can be mediated by HMGB1 which binds to cell-surface receptors [e.g., the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), Toll-like receptor (TLR)2, and TLR4]. Anti-HMGB1 treatment, such as anti-HMGB1 polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies, inhibitors (e.g., ethyl pyruvate) and antagonists (e.g., A box), can protect against sepsis lethality and give a wider window for the treatment opportunity.

CONCLUSION: HMGB1 is an attractive target for the development of new therapeutic strategies in the treatment of patients with septic complications.

Key words: High mobility group box 1 protein, Sepsis, Immunological effect, Cytokine, Signal transduction