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

Folate deficiency in a mother increases the risk of neural tube defects including spina bifida, but the link to autism is unclear. —Jon Hamilton, NPR, 6 Sep. 2025

Folate supplements are already recommended for women during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, in infants. —Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025

For instance, low concentrations of folate in the blood are associated with neural tube defects — brain or spine defects that develop in the first month of pregnancy. —Aria Bendix, NBC news, 26 Aug. 2025

Experts recommend starting a daily prenatal vitamin with 400 mcg of folic acid at least one month before pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects, and continuing it at least for the first trimester.1112 Check with your OB-GYN for personalized advice. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 14 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for neural tube

• hypercube
• nanotube
• phototube
• boob
• cube
• lube
• rube

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