High Mobility Group Box (HMGB) proteins are a family of highly conserved, non-histone proteins that are found in the nucleus of cells and play important roles in various biological processes. These proteins consist of three main members, namely HMGB1, HMGB2, and HMGB3, and are characterized by their ability to bind to DNA and regulate gene expression.
HMGB proteins are referred to as "high mobility group" due to their ability to interact with DNA at multiple sites, enhancing the flexibility of the DNA molecule and promoting access to transcription factors and other regulatory proteins. This dynamic interaction helps to regulate DNA-dependent processes such as DNA repair, replication, recombination, and transcription.
These proteins also contribute to immune response and inflammation by acting as danger signals or alarmins, which are released from cells upon tissue damage or stress, triggering an immune response. HMGB proteins can bind to receptors on immune cells, such as toll-like receptors, and stimulate the production of inflammatory cytokines.
Aberrant expression or dysregulation of HMGB proteins has been associated with various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. These proteins have therefore emerged as potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers for disease diagnosis and prognosis.
Overall, High Mobility Group Box proteins are essential components of the cellular machinery involved in DNA regulation and contribute to immune response and disease pathogenesis.
