Serum TLR2 and S100B in Substance Abuse: A Clinical Perspective
International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine,
Vol. 15 No. 1 (2025),
12 February 2025
https://doi.org/10.32598/ijmtfm.v15i1.44049
Abstract
Background: Substance abuse leads to blood-brain barrier dysfunction and activation of neuro-inflammatory pathways. However, the contribution of serum levels of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2) and S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B) to neuropsychological outcomes has not been clearly established. This study aims to explore the relationship between TLR-2 and S100B serum concentrations in individuals with substance abuse and their potential influence on neuropsychological results, specifically regarding the functioning of the frontal lobe.
Methods: This study involved 28 individuals who were diagnosed with substance abuse at Loghman Hakim Hospital’s Toxicology Unit in 2022. Serum TLR-2 concentration and S100B levels, as neuroinflammatory markers, and the frontal assessment battery (FAB), as executive function markers, were measured.
Results: Substance abuse patients exhibited elevated levels of both TLR-2 and S100B. In drug addicts, a strong positive relationship was detected between serum levels of TLR-2 and S100B (r=0.742, P=0.0021) levels. Nevertheless, no significant relationship was found between FAB scores and serum concentrations of S100B and TLR-2.
Conclusion: This study reveals increased serum TLR-2 and S100B levels in individuals with substance abuse. However, these elevated levels did not appear to be associated with risk factors related to substance abuse or frontal lobe function.
- Substance abuse
- Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2)
- S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B)
- Executive function
How to Cite
References
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