Transcriptional responses in rat brain associated with sub-chronic toluene inhalation are not predicted by effects of acute toluene inhalation

► Toluene is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and a ubiquitous air pollutant. ► Acute effects have been characterized however several possible modes of action exist. ► Acute inhalation of toluene produced transcriptional effects in rat brain 18 h. ► This study examined whether these acute effects are evident after sub-chronic exposure. ► Based on these data, long-term gene expression changes cannot be predicted by acute responses.