Objective:To elucidate the role of HMGB1 in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy by detecting serum concentrations of HMGB1 and related inflammatory factors and oxidative stress makers in patients suffer with diabetic nephropathy. Methods:Collected clinical data and blood samples of 120 cases of diabetic nephropathy and 60 cases of simple diabetic patients. The patients with diabetic nephropathy were divided into two groups according to the 24 hours urinary albumin quantitative,microalbuminuria group (n=60) and macroalbuminuria group (n=60). HbA1c,TC,LDL-C,HDL-C,TG,creatinine of the samples were detected. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) was used to detect the concentration of HMGB1,RAGE,TNF-α and MDA of three groups. Results:①Compared with simple diabetes group,the serum concentration of HMGB1,RAGE,TNF-α and MDA significantly increased in two groups of diabetic nephropathy,and the difference is statistically significant (P < 0.01). ② The serum concentration of HMGB1,RAGE,TNF-α and MDA was highest in macroalbuminuria group of diabetic nephropathy. ③The expression of HMGB1 was positively correlated with RAGE,TNF-α and MDA. Conclusion:The serum concentration of HMGB1 was significantly increased in patients with clinical diabetic nephropathy.With the deterioration of albuminuria,the expression of HMGB1 gradually increased. HMGB1 may participate in the development of diabetic nephropathy by promoting inflammation and oxidative stress.