Cardiac neural crest

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Cardiac neural crest refers to a specific population of cells derived from the neural crest during embryonic development. These cells play a crucial role in the formation of the heart and the great arteries.

Development

The cardiac neural crest cells originate from the neural tube in the region extending from the mid-otic placode to the third somite. These cells migrate to the developing heart, where they contribute to the formation of the aorticopulmonary septum, which divides the truncus arteriosus into the aorta and the pulmonary artery.

Functions

Cardiac neural crest cells are essential for:

• The septation of the outflow tract of the heart.
• The formation of the aortic arch arteries.
• The development of the cardiac ganglia.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal development or migration of cardiac neural crest cells can lead to congenital heart defects such as:

• Tetralogy of Fallot
• Persistent truncus arteriosus
• Interrupted aortic arch
• DiGeorge syndrome

Research

Studies on cardiac neural crest cells have provided insights into the mechanisms of heart development and the etiology of congenital heart diseases. Research continues to explore the potential of these cells in regenerative medicine and cardiac repair.

See also

• Neural crest
• Heart development
• Congenital heart defect
• Aortic arch