Pyruvate incubation enhances glycogen stores and sustains neuronal function during subsequent glucose deprivation

► Pyruvate incubation increases the tolerance of neuron to delayed glucose deprivation. ► Improved function during glucose deprivation is mediated by increased glycogen store. ► Tolerance during glucose deprivation is proportional to the amount of glycogen utilized. ► Pyruvate maintains NADH/NAD+ and ATP better during delayed GD than lactate.