Elevated resistin levels may regulate high mobility group box 1 expression in Guillain-Barré syndrome

Interactions among cytokines have important roles in the inflammatory processes underlying Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). Resistin and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) are involved in many inflammatory processes. This study examined 51 GBS patients, and found that serum resistin levels were elevated in 51 patients with GBS and correlated with HMGB1 levels. In vitro, resistin induced the release of HMGB1, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 in THP-1 macrophages. This process was dependent on activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and NF-κB signaling pathways. These results suggest that signaling between resistin and HMGB1 might be a potential therapeutic target in GBS.