Serum Tlr2 and S100b in Substance Abuse: A Clinical Perspective Publisher



Mostafazadeh B¹ ; Ramezani M² ; Simani L³ ; Shadnia S¹ ; Abbaszadeh F⁴ ; Erfantalab Evini P¹ ; Monjazeb S⁵ ; Rahimi M¹ ; Pakdaman H⁶ ; Maghsudloo F⁶
Source: International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine Published:2025

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. Copyright © 2025 The Author(s)