Pharmacological intervention of the HMGB1-pCTS-L axis to ameliorate inflammatory diseases - Summary - MDSpire

Pharmacological intervention of the HMGB1-pCTS-L axis to ameliorate inflammatory diseases

  • By

  • Weiqiang Chen

  • Jianhua Li

  • Xiaoling Qiang

  • Li Lou

  • Cassie Shu Zhu

  • Meihong Deng

  • Haichao Wang

  • May 8, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To examine the pathogenic roles of HMGB1 and procathepsin-L in dysregulated inflammation and propose novel therapeutic interventions targeting the HMGB1-pCTS-L axis, emphasizing its significance in inflammatory disorders.

Key Findings:
  • HMGB1 directly upregulates pCTS-L expression and release, initiating a sustained inflammatory loop, which may complicate treatment strategies.
  • The HMGB1-pCTS-L axis predominantly activates the non-canonical NF-κB pathway, suggesting a targeted approach could mitigate chronic inflammation.
  • Tetranectin inhibits HMGB1 release but facilitates HMGB1-induced pyroptosis, indicating a complex role in inflammation.
  • The P2–1 peptide selectively targets extracellular HMGB1 at pathological sites, enhancing safety and precision in treatment, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Interpretation:

The HMGB1-pCTS-L axis represents a critical pathway in inflammatory diseases, with potential for targeted therapeutic interventions that avoid broad immunosuppression, offering a more refined treatment strategy.

Limitations:
  • The review primarily focuses on the HMGB1-pCTS-L axis without extensive exploration of other inflammatory pathways, such as those involving IL-1 or TNF.
  • Further clinical studies are needed to validate the efficacy and safety of the P2–1 peptide in human subjects, particularly in diverse populations.
Conclusion:

Targeting the HMGB1-pCTS-L axis offers a promising strategy for treating inflammatory disorders, with potential applications in sepsis and rheumatoid arthritis, and could significantly enhance treatment outcomes.

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