The self‐association of HMGB 1 and its possible role in the binding to DNA and cell membrane receptors

High mobility group box 1 ( HMGB 1), a chromatin protein, interacts with DNA and controls gene expression. However, when HMGB 1 is released from apoptotic or damaged cells, it triggers proinflammatory reactions by interacting with various receptors, mainly receptor for advanced glycation end‐products ( RAGE ) and toll‐like receptors ( TLR s). The self‐association of HMGB 1 has been found to be crucial for its DNA ‐related biological functions. It is influenced by several factors, such as ionic strength, pH , specific divalent metal cations, redox environment and acetylation. This self‐association may also play a role in the interaction with RAGE and TLR s and the concomitant inflammatory responses. Future studies should address the potential role of HMGB 1 self‐association on its interactions with DNA , RAGE and TLR s, as well as the influence of physicochemical factors in different cellular environments on these interactions.