Neurula is a word commonly used in biology to describe the stage of development of an embryo where the neural tube begins to form. The spelling of this word can be explained using the IPA phonetic transcription as /nɪˈruːlə/. The "neu" in Neurula comes from the Greek word for nerves, while the "rula" comes from the Latin word for small stream or rivulet. Together, they form a word that describes the embryonic stage where the formation of the nervous system begins.
A neurula is a stage in the embryonic development of vertebrates, particularly during the formation of the nervous system. It represents an intermediate stage between the blastula and the gastrula. The neurula stage marks a critical period when the early embryo undergoes significant cellular movements and differentiation to establish the foundation of the nervous system.
During the neurulation process, the neural plate, a thickened region along the dorsal surface of the embryo, begins to fold inward, forming a groove called the neural groove. As the neural groove deepens, the edges of the groove fuse together, generating a tube known as the neural tube. This tube eventually develops into the spinal cord, brain, and other important components of the central nervous system.
The neurula stage is also characterized by the differentiation of various cell types and the establishment of germ layers. During this period, the ectoderm (outermost layer) develops into the neural tissue, while the mesoderm (middle layer) forms the notochord and other structures. Simultaneously, the endoderm (innermost layer) differentiates into the gut and associated organs.
Overall, the neurula stage represents a critical point in embryonic development when the early embryo establishes key structures and lays the groundwork for the formation of the intricate nervous system.
The word "Neurula" is derived from the combination of two Latin words: "neur", meaning "nerve", and "ula", a diminutive suffix indicating a small or young version of something. Therefore, "Neurula" can be translated as "little nerve". The term is specifically used in embryology to describe a developmental stage of an embryo, primarily in vertebrates, characterized by the formation of the neural tube, which eventually develops into the central nervous system.