Embryonic Development of the Central Nervous System

Ultimately, it is only with an understanding of normal embryologic development that there can be an understanding of why and how a specific malformation develops. Knowing where and when a specific part of the nervous system develops and what morphogens are at play will enable us to identify undescribed malformation, as well as better define causality. The following article reviews the normal embryologic development of the mammalian nervous system and is intended to serve as a foundation for understanding the various malformations presented in this issue.