The Ambiguous Role of HMGB1 Across the Hallmarks of Aging: A Narrative Review

Aging is a complex, multifactorial process driven by interconnected biological mechanisms collectively known as the hallmarks of aging, which contribute to functional decline and the onset of age-related diseases. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a nuclear DNA chaperone and damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP), plays a pivotal role in regulating these hallmarks through its dual functions: preserving genomic stability within the nucleus and promoting inflammatory responses when released extracellularly. This review examines the multifaceted involvement of HMGB1 in key aging hallmarks, such as genomic instability, telomere attrition, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chronic inflammation among others. Preclinical studies demonstrate that nuclear HMGB1 supports chromatin integrity and DNA repair, whereas its extracellular release triggers TLR4/RAGE signaling pathways, thereby intensifying inflammaging and senescence-associated secretory phenotypes (SASP). Emerging therapeutic approaches-such as HMGB1 inhibitors, neutralizing antibodies, and epigenetic modulators-show potential in restoring genomic homeostasis and mitigating age-related pathologies. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain, including elucidating HMGB1's roles in nutrient sensing and psychosocial stress, fine-tuning interventions to preserve its nuclear functions while minimizing extracellular toxicity, and establishing efficacy in human clinical settings. Addressing these gaps may position HMGB1 as a promising multifunctional target for delaying aging and translating preclinical findings into clinical applications.