transforms the neural plate into the neural tube, forming the central nervous system. This process involves complex cell shape changes, signaling gradients, and precise closure mechanisms. Failed closure can lead to serious birth defects.
The plays a crucial role in nervous system patterning. It secretes , creating signaling gradients that establish distinct progenitor domains along the neural tube. These domains give rise to different types of neurons.
Neurulation and Neural Tube Formation
Neural Plate Formation and Folding
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Neurulation transforms neural plate into neural tube forming central nervous system precursor
Neural plate induced by notochord signals along dorsal midline during
Neural plate folding driven by cell shape changes
Apical constriction causes cells to become wedge-shaped
Results in formation of neural groove
Neural folds elevate and converge towards midline
Eventually fuse to form neural tube in primary neurulation
Neural Tube Closure and Defects
Closure begins at multiple initiation sites
Proceeds in zipper-like fashion along embryo
Anterior and posterior neuropores close last
Secondary neurulation occurs in caudal region of some vertebrates
Neural tube forms through cavitation of solid cell cord
Failed closure leads to neural tube defects
(brain and skull do not develop)
(incomplete closure of spinal cord)
Notochord Signaling in Nervous System Patterning
Notochord as Primary Organizer
Rod-like mesodermal structure forms during gastrulation
Serves as primary organizer for developing nervous system
Secretes Sonic hedgehog (Shh) morphogen
Induces floor plate formation in ventral neural tube
Floor plate becomes secondary signaling center
Also secretes Shh establishing ventral-to-dorsal gradient
Signaling Gradients and Neural Tube Patterning
Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs) from dorsal antagonize Shh
Shh and BMP gradients create dorsal-ventral gene expression axis
Establishes distinct progenitor domains along neural tube
Ventral domains give rise to motor neurons
Dorsal domains produce sensory neurons
Notochord induces sclerotome formation in adjacent somites
Contributes to vertebral column development
Neural Crest Cell Formation and Differentiation
Neural Crest Induction and Migration
Multipotent cell population arises at neural plate and non-neural ectoderm border
Induction involves complex BMP, Wnt, and FGF signaling interplay
Undergo (EMT)
Delaminate from dorsal neural tube
Migrate extensively throughout embryo
Migration guided by intrinsic factors and environmental cues