What is the fate of tissue derived from the embryonic neural tube? Neural crest?

SouravSeptember 24, 2024

Answered step-by-step

The fate of tissue derived from the embryonic neural tube and the neural crest is distinct, as they give rise to different structures in the nervous system and beyond.

Neural Tube

The neural tube primarily develops into the central nervous system (CNS), which includes:

• Brain: The anterior part of the neural tube expands and differentiates into the various regions of the brain, including the forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain.
• Spinal Cord: The posterior part of the neural tube develops into the spinal cord.
• Retina: The neural tube also contributes to the formation of the retina, which is part of the CNS.

The neural tube gives rise to neurons and glial cells (such as astrocytes and oligodendrocytes) that are essential for the functioning of the CNS.

Neural Crest

The neural crest is a group of cells that forms at the edges of the neural tube during embryonic development. The fate of neural crest cells includes:

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Neural crest cells differentiate into sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia, autonomic neurons, and Schwann cells, which myelinate peripheral nerves.
• Melanocytes: These cells migrate to the skin and develop into melanocytes, which produce pigment.
• Facial Skeleton and Connective Tissues: Neural crest cells contribute to the formation of various structures in the head and neck, including parts of the skull, facial bones, and connective tissues.
• Endocrine Cells: Some neural crest cells differentiate into cells of the adrenal medulla and other endocrine structures.