Neurulation and Neural Tube Closure Defects

The purpose of this chapter is to summarize some technical approaches and aspects of interpretation that are important when studying the process of neurulation and the origin of neural tube defects in mouse embryos. The techniques are not exclusive to studies of neurulation, so few protocols are described in practical detail. Instead, we emphasize the overall type of approach that appears most effective and give tips on the best application of standard techniques such as those described elsewhere in this and other volumes.