Neural tube closure process

Plausible hypotheses to explain cadmium interference with neural tube closure may be developed on the basis of the importance of cell surface modifications and/or microfllaments and microtubules in the neurulation process, although observations bearing directly on these possibilities have yet to be reported. Virtual restriction of cadmium interference with neural tube closure to the cephalic region, however, would require additional assumptions. This suggests the likelihood that cadmium is affecting some aspect of the closure process that is either peculiar to, or of overriding importance for, closure of the cephalic neural tube. 

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