Anomalies of neuroepithelial cell associations in the Splotch mutant embryo

Neuroepithelial development in Splotch mutant mouse embryos was examined using SEM and TEM. Unlike unaffected littermates, Sp/Sp embryos exhibited extensive neural tube closure defects, disorganization and misalignment of neuroepithelial cells in regions with open defects. Neuroepithelial cell processes often made lateral progress in these areas rather than maintaining their normal contact with the luminal surface. In addition, intercellular space was considerably increased and there were many ectopic cell processes in basal regions of affected areas. The role of altered cell-cell interactions in neurulation is considered.