Neurulation

Definition

Neurulation is the process during embryonic development in which the neural plate forms and then folds to create the neural tube, which eventually develops into the central nervous system. This crucial step in early development is essential for the proper formation of the brain and spinal cord, influencing overall organismal growth and functionality. Neurulation marks a key transition from a flat layer of ectoderm to a three-dimensional structure that forms the foundation of the nervous system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neurulation begins after gastrulation, when the ectoderm starts to form a thickened region called the neural plate.
2. The neural plate undergoes folding to create the neural groove, which deepens until the edges meet and fuse to form the neural tube.
3. Defects in neurulation can lead to serious conditions like spina bifida or anencephaly, highlighting its importance in development.
4. During neurulation, not only is the neural tube formed, but also structures such as neural crest cells that contribute to peripheral nervous system development.
5. Neurulation is regulated by various molecular signals, including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), which play key roles in cell fate determination.

Review Questions

• How does neurulation relate to the formation of the central nervous system?
  • Neurulation is directly responsible for forming the neural tube, which eventually becomes the central nervous system. During this process, the neural plate transforms into a three-dimensional structure that folds and fuses to create the neural tube. If this process goes awry, it can result in serious congenital defects, emphasizing neurulation's critical role in establishing foundational components of brain and spinal cord development.
• What are some consequences of failed neurulation, and how do they affect overall development?
  • Failed neurulation can lead to conditions such as spina bifida and anencephaly, where portions of the spinal cord or brain fail to develop properly. These defects arise when the neural tube does not close completely or correctly. Such issues can have profound impacts on mobility, cognitive function, and overall quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions, highlighting how crucial successful neurulation is for normal development.
• Evaluate how external factors can influence neurulation during embryonic development.
  • External factors such as maternal nutrition, exposure to teratogens, or environmental toxins can significantly impact neurulation. For instance, a deficiency in folic acid during pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of neural tube defects. Moreover, certain drugs or chemicals may interfere with signaling pathways essential for proper cell differentiation and growth during this critical period. Understanding these influences can help inform preventive measures for ensuring healthy embryonic development.

Related terms

neural tube: The structure that forms from the folding of the neural plate during neurulation and ultimately develops into the brain and spinal cord.

ectoderm: One of the three primary germ layers in early embryonic development, from which the neural plate and other structures are derived.

neural induction: The process by which certain signals lead to the formation of neural tissue from ectodermal cells, setting the stage for neurulation.