Investigation of the relationship between HMGB1 and obesity in the adrenal gland

Abstract

Aim: The interaction between obesity and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines results the existence of inflammation HMGB1 secreted from the adrenal gland can play a role in inflammation pathways. The aim of this study is to explain the link between HMGB1 and obesity in the adrenal gland. Material and Methods: In this study; eighteen female Wistar Albino rats were divided into two groups: untreated control group (n=8) and obese group (n=10). The rats in obese group were fed with high fat diet for ten weeks. Morphometric parameters of adrenal gland were assessed by using stereological techniques. The expression of high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) in adrenal gland was evaluated. Results: At the end of the analyses; mean volumes of zona fasciculate, zona reticularis, and medulla were significantly increased in obese group. Also, the number of HMGB1 stained cells was significantly increased in the obese group in comparison to control group. Conclusion: The results suggest that obesity may be one of the reasons of inflammation and hypertrophy in the adrenal gland. HMGB1 may provide a novel perspective into the anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies in obese patients.