Purpose of review: High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a molecule that has gained much attention in the last couple of years as an important player in innate immune responses and modulating factor in several (auto)immune diseases. Furthermore, advancements have been made in identifying the diverse functions that HMGB1 can play in the body by studying its receptors, pathways and effects. This review will focus on the modulation of HMGB1 in animal models of (auto)immune diseases.
Recent findings: In different disease models like sepsis, ischemia-reperfusion and arthritis, HMGB1-blocking therapies have been tested and the disease course was shown to be ameliorated.
Summary: These findings indicate that HMGB1 is an important mediator in innate immunity, inflammation and sterile injury. Furthermore, HMGB1 might be a new therapeutic target in inflammation and autoimmune diseases, which may be translated to the clinic.