Which embryonic cell population gives rise to peripheral nerves and many cranial structures, such as autonomic ganglia and Schwann cells?

Which embryonic cell population gives rise to peripheral nerves and many cranial structures, such as autonomic ganglia and Schwann cells?

• A. Neural crest cells
• B. Neural plate cells
• C. Mesoderm
• D. Endoderm

Answer: (A)

Peripheral nerves and many cranial structures come from neural crest cells, a population that forms at the border between the neural tube and the epidermis during early neurulation. These cells are highly multipotent and migrate to many destinations. They differentiate into the Schwann cells that wrap and insulate peripheral nerves, as well as the neurons and glia of the peripheral nervous system, including autonomic ganglia. They also contribute to craniofacial structures such as bones and cartilage of the face, along with other derivatives like certain pigments and adrenal medulla cells. In contrast, neural plate cells produce the neural tube that becomes the central nervous system; mesoderm generates muscles, bones, and other connective tissues; endoderm lines the gut and associated organs. So the population responsible for peripheral nerves and many cranial structures is neural crest cells.

Peripheral nerves and many cranial structures come from neural crest cells, a population that forms at the border between the neural tube and the epidermis during early neurulation. These cells are highly multipotent and migrate to many destinations. They differentiate into the Schwann cells that wrap and insulate peripheral nerves, as well as the neurons and glia of the peripheral nervous system, including autonomic ganglia. They also contribute to craniofacial structures such as bones and cartilage of the face, along with other derivatives like certain pigments and adrenal medulla cells. In contrast, neural plate cells produce the neural tube that becomes the central nervous system; mesoderm generates muscles, bones, and other connective tissues; endoderm lines the gut and associated organs. So the population responsible for peripheral nerves and many cranial structures is neural crest cells.