Which region begins closure of the neural tube?
After the notochord induces the formation of the neural plate, the lateral edges of the plate fold dorsally to form the neural groove. The lips of the neural groove grow toward the midline and fuse to form the neural tube. This closure of the neural tube occurs first in the cervical region and progresses cranially and caudally simultaneously. Failure of the neural tube to close results in a variety of congenital abnormalities that include anencephaly and spina bifida with myeloschisis.
Cranial end
Caudal end
Cervical region
Lumber region
General anatomy