Cranial neural crest

Cranial Neural Crest

The Cranial Neural Crest is a group of cells that originate in the embryo during the neurulation process. These cells are unique to vertebrates and are responsible for the development of various tissues and structures in the head and neck region.

Development

During the early stages of embryonic development, the neural tube forms from the ectoderm, the outermost layer of the embryo. The cranial neural crest cells are formed at the border of the neural tube and the ectoderm. These cells undergo a process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition, which allows them to migrate and differentiate into various cell types.

Migration and Differentiation

Cranial neural crest cells migrate extensively and contribute to a wide range of tissues and organs in the head and neck region. These include the cranial nerves, cranial ganglia, craniofacial cartilage and bones, and certain connective tissues. The exact path and destination of these cells are determined by a combination of cell-intrinsic factors and environmental cues.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the development or migration of cranial neural crest cells can lead to a variety of congenital disorders, such as Treacher Collins syndrome, Pierre Robin sequence, and neurocristopathies. Understanding the biology of these cells can provide insights into the pathogenesis of these disorders and potential therapeutic strategies.

See Also

• Neural crest
• Neurulation
• Ectoderm
• Epithelial-mesenchymal transition