Particulate matter neurotoxicity in culture is size-dependent

► This in vitro study examines the response of isolated dopaminergic neurons and brain striatum cultures (Sprague-Dawley rat) to concentrated air pollutants (CAPs). ► Evidence of particle-size dependent neurotoxicity is documented in both in vitro systems. ► Evidence of oxidative stress damage is collected in both systems. ► Neurotoxicity is enhanced in brain striatum cultures relative to isolated neurons exposed to CAPs. ► Unlike in vivo models of CAPs Apo −/− neurodegeneration, oxidative stress is not critical to in vitro neurotoxicity.