High-mobility group protein box(HMGB) 1 protein is a highly conserved nuclear DNA-binding protein that has an important function in gene transcription and DNA recombination and repair. HMGB1 contributes in the inflammation process when secreted in the extracellular milieu. HMGB1 highly expressed in the periodontal tissue of periodontitis, aggressive periodontitis, and peri-implantitis. HMGB1 can increase the ratio of the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand and osteoprotegerin, contribute to osteoclast formation, and promote destruction of the alveolar bone. Interleukin is closely related to the inflammatory reaction of periodontitis. HMGB1 can promote production of interleukin and other inflammatory factors by periodontal ligament fibroblasts and accelerate the development of periodontal disease and alveolar bone resorption. This review will introduce the functions of HMGB1 in the nucleus and outside the cell, the release pathways of HMGB1, and the role of HMGB1 in the development of periodontal disease.
