What does "Neural Crest Cells" mean?
Table of Contents
Neural crest cells (NCCs) are special types of cells that form during the early stages of development in animals. They start as part of the nervous system but move away from their original location to become different types of cells in the body. This movement and change are crucial for forming many parts of an animal, including the face and nerves.
How NCCs Move
As the animal develops, NCCs travel from their starting point in the embryo. They usually follow specific paths to reach their destinations. In some animals, like lizards, researchers have studied how these cells migrate and where they end up, revealing that their movement is similar across different species.
What NCCs Become
Once NCCs have moved to their new locations, they change into various cell types. Some become parts of the skeleton, skin, or brain. This ability to change is important because it helps form many structures in the body.
Intermediate States
During the journey of NCCs, there are stages where they are not fully one type or another. These intermediate states allow NCCs to adapt and may play a role in how they move and change. Much of the research on NCCs focuses on these different stages and how they might relate to both normal development and diseases.
NCCs in Research
Studying NCCs helps scientists understand how some diseases might develop. By learning about how these cells behave and change, researchers can gain insights into problems related to cell movement and growth in animals, including humans.