NEURULATION

Question 1

As the neural plate grows and elongates along the anterior- posterior axis, what is also occurring.

Answer 1

The neural plate is also rolling up into a tube.

Question 2

The mid region of the neural tube closes first. What can happen at either end?

Answer 2

The ends of the neural tube are last to close. Sometimes, this does not occur properly and so anteriorly this will induce anencephaly and posteriorly, spina bifida.

Question 3

Neurulation is driven by changes in cell shape, how does this occur?

Answer 3

Neurepithelia, like other epithelia are polarised (different either side). On the apical membrane is a band of F actin which, when molecules interact with it, constricts to change shape.

Question 4

What is an example of a signal that interacts with the actin on the apical membrane of neurepithelia?

Answer 4

Folate