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Understanding the Neurulation Process

Oct 29, 2024

Neurulation Process

Key Stages of Neurulation

  1. Neural Plate Formation

    • Begins at the cranial end of the embryo.
    • Grows from cranial to caudal direction.
    • Cranial end indicates future brain region.
    • Caudal end indicates future spinal cord region.
  2. Neural Fold Development

    • Occurs by the end of the third week.
    • Lateral edges of the neural plate elevate and move together.
    • The space formed is called the neural groove.
  3. Neural Tube Formation

    • Neural folds fuse to form the neural tube.
    • Neural tube is the precursor to the central nervous system.
    • Fusion begins in the middle of the embryo and extends cranially and caudally.
  4. Neural Crest Formation

    • Cells on the crest of the neural folds detach.
    • These cells form the neural crest.
    • Neural crest cells contribute to the peripheral nervous system.
  5. Completion of Neurulation

    • The neural tube completely fuses.
    • Marks the completion of the neurulation process.