Fig. 9

Proposed model showing how CD11b mediates P + M-induced LC/NE neurodegeneration. P + M exposure in mice elevates CD11b expression in the LC. Genetic deletion of CD11b attenuates P + M-induced LC/NE neurodegeneration, indicating a CD11b-dependent pathway. Our results show that CD11b mediates NLRP3 inflammasome activation in P + M-treated mice. Inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome by glybenclamide suppresses P + M-induced microglial proinflammatory activation and NADPH oxidase activation as well as ROS production, which are associated with LC/NE neuroprotection