S100 Calcium Binding Protein B (S100B) is a member of the S100 protein family, which is characterized by the presence of two EF-hand calcium-binding motifs. These proteins are localized in the cytoplasm and/or nucleus of a wide range of cells and are involved in the regulation of various cellular processes such as cell cycle progression and differentiation .
The S100B gene is located on chromosome 21q22.3 in humans and on chromosome 10 in mice . The protein encoded by this gene is primarily expressed by astrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS) but is also found in other cell types . S100B is a homodimer, meaning it consists of two identical subunits, each containing two EF-hand motifs that bind calcium ions .
S100B plays a crucial role in several cellular functions, including:
S100B has been implicated in several neurological and neoplastic diseases. Elevated levels of S100B are often observed in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Down syndrome, epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), melanoma, and type I diabetes . Due to its role in the CNS, S100B is considered a potential biomarker for blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and CNS injury . Elevated serum levels of S100B can indicate the presence of neuropathological conditions, including traumatic brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases .
S100B is secreted by astrocytes or can spill from injured cells into the extracellular space or bloodstream . Its levels in the serum can be used as a diagnostic marker to assess the extent of CNS damage. Normal levels of S100B can reliably exclude major CNS pathology, making it a valuable tool in clinical decision-making . Additionally, the regulation of S100B by certain compounds, such as melittin, has potential therapeutic applications for conditions like epilepsy .