Role of the CXCR4-SDF1-HMGB1 pathway in the directional migration of cells and regeneration of affected organs

Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the dynamic HMGB1–CXCL12–SDF1 axis for accelerated tissue regeneration. Disulfide (oxidized) HMGB1 usually binds to RAGE and TLR and regulates the expression of genes with pro- or anti-inflammatory properties and partial chemotactic properties. Whereas, fully reduced HMGB1 released from necrotic or stressed cells forms a heterocomplex with SDF1 secreted from activated immune cells or from cells within the injured tissues. Later, this heterocomplex binds to the CXCR4 receptors on the cells and facilitates site-specific migration[123-125]. MSC: Mesenchymal stem cells.