Neural tube defects articles from across Nature Portfolio

Neural tube defects are common birth defects that have been shown to be reduced through periconceptional folate supplementation, though the mechanism for this effect is unclear. Here they show that FOLR1 is necessary for neural tube formation in human neural organoids and Xenopus laevis embryos, and that this role is independent of its folate transport function.

The molecular mechanisms ensuring early face, brain, and skin formation are unclear. Here, the authors uncover a posttranslational pathway that controls cytoskeletal signaling circuits to coordinate ectodermal patterning and neurulation.

A crosstalk among components of the endoderm, mesoderm and neuroectoderm via the growth factor FGF2 and Survivin-containing exosomes is essential for successful neurulation and is deregulated in diabetic pregnancy.

Levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons linked to neural tube defects.