Neurulation is defined as a process of neural tube closure. Recent reports suggested that upon completion of this process the major factors of neurulation remain in force at least until the central canal of the neural tube is formed. Hence, an idea has been put forward to define the two periods of neurulation: early neurulation corresponds to the period of neural tube closure and late neurulation corresponds to the period of formation of the central canal. These ideas are discussed in a context of neural tube defects that may affect late neurulation and result in distention of the central canal.
Keywords: apical constriction; central canal; floor plate; neural tube defects; primitive lumen; roof plate.
© 2014 The Author Development, Growth & Differentiation © 2014 Japanese Society of Developmental Biologists.