S100B modulates growth factors and costimulatory molecules expression in cultured human astrocytes

S100B is a Ca(2+)-binding protein expressed in the nervous system. Increased levels of S100B in the extracellular space have been detected in several neurological disorders. We investigated the response of human astrocytes to micromolar chronic concentrations of this protein measuring the expression of some costimulatory molecules, such as CD137, CD137-L, CD40, CD40-L, the chemokine RANTES and two growth factors FGF-2 and TGF-β2. Our findings suggest that high levels of S100B in the brain parenchyma may modulate the activation status of astrocytes decreasing their neuroprotective role and modifying their interaction with microglia and other inflammatory cells. This effect may contribute to evolution of some neurological disorders.