The neural tube of vertebrates develops during morphogenesis the nervous system by the?
Neural tube arises by the process of neurulation. The process of neurulation refers to the formation and development of the neural tube, which ultimately gives rise to the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord. This process occurs during embryonic development and goes through several key stages:
1. Formation of the Neural Plate:
- During early development, a sheet-like structure called the neural plate forms from the ectoderm, which is the outermost germ layer of the embryo.
- This occurs due to the induction signals from the underlying mesoderm (another germ layer).
2. Folding of Neural Plate:
- As development proceeds, the neural plate begins to undergo a series of folding events along the embryo's dorsal side.
- This folding initiates with the appearance of the neural groove along the midline, and the edges of the neural plate gradually elevate to form the neural folds.
3. Closure of Neural Folds:
- The neural folds continue to rise and come closer to each other until they fuse at the midline, leading to the closure of the neural tube.
- The closure occurs in a zipper-like manner, progressing from the rostral (head) region caudally (tailward).
4. Formation of the Neural Crest:
- During neurulation, a group of cells separate from the edges of the neural folds and form a structure known as the neural crest.
- These neural crest cells are crucial as they migrate to various regions of the embryo and contribute to the formation of numerous structures, including peripheral nerves, cartilage, and other cell types.
The completion of neurulation results in the formation of a hollow tube filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which serves as cushioning and protection for the developing CNS. The process is crucial for the proper development and function of the brain and spinal cord, and disruptions can lead to various neural tube defects.