Neuronal death by repetitive cortical spreading depression in juvenile rat brain

► Spreading depression (SD) plays a crucial role in different neurological disorders. ► It is believed that SD in normal brains does not induce cell damage or death. ► We demonstrate that SD in juvenile rats causes neuronal damage and death. ► These data indicate a harmful effect of SD at intermediate stages of brain development. ► This may play an important role in neurological disorders in children.