Genetic alterations, RNA expression profiling and DNA methylation of HMGB1 in malignancies

The high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in various human diseases. However, a systematic, comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of HMGB1 in human cancers remains to be reported. This study analysed the genetic alteration, RNA expression profiling and DNA methylation of HMGB1 in more than 30 types of tumours. It is worth noting that HMGB1 is overexpressed in malignant tissues, including lymphoid neoplasm diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBC), pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) and thymoma (THYM). Interestingly, there is a positive correlation between the high expression of HMGB1 and the high survival prognosis of THYM. Finally, this study comprehensively evaluates the genetic variation of HMGB1 in human malignant tumours. As a prospective biomarker of COVID-19, the role that HMGB1 plays in THYM is highlighted.