The numbers of cells expressing NF-kB p65 or F4/80 were significantly increased in the AOM+DSS group compared with the normal group (p < 0.01, Supplementary Figure 4C and 4D; Figure 6E), but was significantly decreased in the presence of SHH inhibitors (p < 0.05, Figure 6E). This evidence concerns the gene NFKB1 and infectious otitis media.