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Updated: Aug 11, 2026
09:03
Analysis of Neural Crest Migration and Differentiation by Cross-species Transplantation
Published on: February 7, 2012
Segmental organization of neural crest migration
1Biological Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, 108 Lefevre, 65211, Columbia, MO, USA. krullc@missouri.edu
Mechanisms of Development
|June 29, 2001
Summary
Avian neural crest cells migrate segmentally, guided by molecular cues in the embryo. These cues, including inhibitory and permissive factors, control cell pathways and contribute to nervous system organization.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Avian neural crest cells form diverse cell types, migrating along specific embryonic pathways.
- Trunk neural crest cells exhibit segmental migration within the somitic mesoderm.
- Hindbrain neural crest cells migrate segmentally via streams adjacent to even-numbered rhombomeres.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review findings on the mechanisms controlling segmentally-organized neural crest cell migration in avian embryos.
- To highlight the role of tissue, cellular, and molecular elements in this process.
Main Methods:
- Review of classical and recent studies on avian neural crest cell migration.
- Analysis of migratory pathways and their interaction with embryonic tissues.
Main Results:
- Neural crest cell migration is precisely controlled by the embryonic environment.
- Segmental migration patterns are influenced by both inhibitory and permissive molecular factors.
- Somitic mesoderm imposes segmental migration at trunk levels, while hindbrain migration involves different cues.
Conclusions:
- Embryonic tissues provide directional cues for neural crest cell migration.
- Inhibitory factors restrict neural crest cells from certain territories.
- Permissive factors likely play a crucial role in coordinating migration pathways.
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