The neural tube is a central element of the developing nervous system, a structure that eventually gives rise to the brain and spinal cord. The word "neural tube" is pronounced /ˈnjʊərəl tjuːb/. In the IPA phonetic transcription, the /j/ symbol represents the sound of the letter "y" in "you", while the "u:ʊ" symbol represents the vowel sounds in "tube". Overall, the spelling of "neural tube" accurately reflects the pronunciation of the word.
The neural tube is a cylindrical structure that develops in the early stages of embryonic development in vertebrates, including humans. It acts as the precursor to the central nervous system (CNS), comprising the brain and spinal cord. During the earliest development of the embryo, a flat sheet of ectodermal tissue, known as the neural plate, forms along the dorsal midline of the embryo. As the neural plate folds inward, the neural tube is formed.
This vital structure begins developing around three weeks after fertilization and undergoes a complex series of morphological changes. It starts as a hollow tube that runs longitudinally along the dorsal axis of the embryo. The neural tube then undergoes elongation and regionalization to form distinct regions such as the forebrain, midbrain, hindbrain, and spinal cord.
The neural tube plays a crucial role in the development of the nervous system. It gives rise to all major components of the CNS, including neurons, glial cells, and various supporting cells. Its proper closure and subsequent development are essential for the normal functioning of the nervous system. Defects in neural tube closure can lead to serious developmental abnormalities, such as spina bifida or anencephaly.
Understanding the formation and development of the neural tube is critical for studying neural development and identifying potential therapeutic targets to prevent or treat neural tube defects.
The word "neural" is derived from the Greek word "neuron", which means "nerve". The term "neural tube" is composed of two words: "neural" and "tube". "Tube" originated from the Latin word "tubus", which means "hollow cylinder" or "pipe-like structure".
In embryology, the neural tube refers to the embryonic structure that develops into the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.