S-100 protein is a member of the EF-hand calcium-binding protein superfamily that is widely distributed and conserved in the central nervous system of vertebrates. The protein exists in both heterodimeric and homodimeric forms. The two subunits of S-100 protein are the products of separate genes that are differentially expressed by various cells. The beta subunit is present in all S-100 positive cells and tumors. In contrast, the alpha subunit is detectable only in heart, skeletal muscle and brain. In addition to its calcium binding properties, S-100 protein has a high-affinity binding site for zinc and is involved in the regulation of protein phosphorylation in the brain. The protein apparently plays a role in cell differentiation and growth, cytoskeletal structure and function, and has been implicated in neuropathological diseases.