Figure 1.

A. Hypothesized progression by which air pollution may negatively impact the central nervous system, regarding the interaction of compromised epithelial barriers, normally protective against such pollutants, and a pro-inflammatory state of the body’s immune system. B. Sagittal view of magnetic resonance image of neuroinflammation in cortical structures in a male Mexico City resident aged 10 (Courtesy of Professor Lilian Calderón-Garcidueñas). Yellow = prefrontal cortex; Blue = olfactory bulb; Green = brainstem. Red arrows indicate plausible vectors by which airborne pollutants may enter the central nervous system and contribute to neuroinflammation/ cell loss. PM = particulate matter, BBB = blood-brain barrier.