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Patterning of the vertebrate neural crest
1Developmental Biology Center, University of California, Irvine 92717, USA.
Perspectives on Developmental Neurobiology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Neural crest cell migration mechanisms are becoming clearer through combined embryology and molecular biology techniques. Interactions between cells and surrounding tissues like somites and the notochord guide this crucial developmental process.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Embryology
Background:
- Neural crest cells are a transient, migratory cell population essential for vertebrate development.
- Understanding neural crest cell migration is key to deciphering various developmental processes and congenital disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the complex mechanisms governing neural crest cell migration.
- To highlight the interplay between intrinsic cellular properties and extrinsic environmental cues.
Main Methods:
- Integration of experimental embryology techniques.
- Application of cell and molecular biology methodologies.
- In vivo and in vitro studies of neural crest cell behavior.
Main Results:
- In the trunk, mesodermal somites pattern neural crest cells rostrocaudally, while the notochord inhibits midline crossing.
- In the hindbrain, segmental migration is influenced by rhombomere-intrinsic information and extrinsic signals (e.g., otic vesicle).
- A close relationship exists between migrating neural crest cells, the neural tube, and surrounding migratory pathways.
Conclusions:
- Neural crest cell migration is a tightly regulated process involving intricate cell-cell interactions and environmental guidance.
- Both intrinsic factors within neural crest cells and extrinsic signals from the embryonic environment are critical for proper migration.
- The neural tube and adjacent tissues play integral roles in controlling neural crest cell movement during development.