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Updated: May 16, 2026
05:51
Monitoring the Mechanical Evolution of Tissue During Neural Tube Closure of Chick Embryo
Published on: November 10, 2023
Multiple neural tube defects may not be very rare
Santosh Kumar Mahalik1, Dhananjay Vaze, Ravi Prakash Kanojia
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, PGIMER Chandigarh, Chandigarh 160012, India. dr.santosh25@gmail.com
Summary
Multiple neural tube defects (MNTDs) are rare, with only 0.038% incidence found in this study. Further research into molecular pathways could offer prevention and in utero treatment strategies for these congenital anomalies.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Neonatalogy
- Clinical Genetics
Background:
- Multiple neural tube defects (MNTDs) are uncommon congenital anomalies.
- Their rarity poses embryological questions regarding neural tube closure.
- Understanding MNTDs is crucial for diagnosing associated central nervous system anomalies.
Observation:
- A prospective study identified 10 cases of MNTDs among 263 neural tube defect (NTD) patients.
- The incidence of MNTDs within the NTD cohort was 0.038%.
- Nine patients had double NTDs, and one had triple NTDs.
Findings:
- MNTDs may be more prevalent in populations with high NTD incidence.
- The multisite closure theory can explain various MNTD combinations.
- Further investigation into molecular pathways is needed to understand MNTD pathogenesis.
Implications:
- Insights into molecular pathways could lead to novel prevention strategies for NTDs.
- Potential for in utero pharmacological interventions to treat or prevent MNTDs.
- Enhanced understanding of MNTD pathogenesis may improve clinical management and outcomes.
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