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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web 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 Most neural tube disorders are debilitating or fatal. Bridget Alex, Discover Magazine, 28 Jan. 2019 While folic acid is essential for preventing neural tube defects, folate is important for other aspects of fetal development. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 9 Nov. 2022 In fact, just half a cup of cooked asparagus, contains 134 micrograms of folate, a nutrient that is vital during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Jaclyn London, M.s., R.d., Good Housekeeping, 4 Jan. 2023 In developing vertebrate embryos, these cells form along the back edge of the neural tube (precursor to the brain and spine). Bridget Alex, Discover Magazine, 3 May 2019 Another new Santa is Fin Ciappara, a.k.a. Santa Fin, who was born with a form of spina bifida, a neural tube defect that's left the 32-year-old from Barre, Vermont, almost non-verbal, yet able to communicate through his iPad. Diane Herbst, Peoplemag, 8 Nov. 2022 On one end, the neural tube started to fold around day 6, on the other a tail began to bud. Megan Molteni, STAT, 2 Aug. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'neural tube.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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 28 Mar. 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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