neural tube

noun

: the hollow longitudinal dorsal tube formed by infolding and subsequent fusion of the opposite ectodermal folds in the vertebrate embryo that gives rise to the brain and spinal cord

Examples of neural tube in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Adequate intake of this nutrient before conception and during early pregnancy has been shown to prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida and anencephaly. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 Aug. 2023 Folate is particularly important in preventing neural tube defects during this time, which is why the CDC recommends starting a prenatal with folic acid before you even become pregnant.18 Are gummy prenatal vitamins as good as pills? Anne Cook Carroll, Ms, Parents, 2 Aug. 2023 Because it can be absorbed more easily by our bodies, folic acid is preferred over natural folate for preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida during pregnancy. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 9 Nov. 2022 In young frog embryos, cells in a part called the neural tube have a specific electrical charge. Study Summaries, Scientific American, 17 May 2023 Pregnant women should take a daily supplement with 0.4 to 0.8 milligrams (400 to 800 micrograms) of folic acid to prevent neural tube birth defects, according to a recommendation from the task force. Jen Christensen, CNN, 18 Apr. 2023 The fetus had a rare neural tube defect. New York Times, 26 Nov. 2021 NCCs are stem cells found in every embryo that show up first at the crest, or top edge, of the neural tube, which will eventually become the brain and spinal cord. Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 27 June 2018 The doctor explained that the baby might have a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida. Elizabeth Cohen, CNN, 8 Feb. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'neural tube.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neural tube was in 1888

Dictionary Entries Near neural tube

Cite this Entry

“Neural tube.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neural%20tube. Accessed 9 Dec. 2023.

Medical Definition

neural tube

noun
: the hollow longitudinal dorsal tube that is formed by infolding and subsequent fusion of the opposite ectodermal folds in the vertebrate embryo and gives rise to the brain and spinal cord

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