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.