The mystery of early embryonic communication is starting to be unraveled thanks to a new stem cell-based model.

From the moment an embryo starts to take shape, two-way communication is critical for making sure tissues and organs develop correctly.

The first step in shaping the brain is that the neural plate, a sheet-like cell layer, curves to form the neural tube. Assistant Professor Makoto Suzuki of the National Institute for Basic Biology, ...

Neural tube formation was compromised in frog embryos treated with the widely-used antiepileptic drug valproic acid and led to defects. Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the ...

Taking folic acid supplements before conception and in the first trimester of pregnancy continues to be a major line of defense against neural tube defects. The recommendation also aligns with ...

RosetteArrays, developed at UW–Madison, grow fields of neural rosettes — embroynic versions of down-scaled, simplified brain structures — from stem cells, giving scientists the opportunity to study ...