Neural tube closure is a vital step that occurs early in human development. Closure of the neural tube depends on a complex interplay between numerous factors. Failure to close correctly results in severe disorders such as spina bifida. The manuscript integrates existing information on regulation of mammalian neural tube closure in a systems biology network, representing the first step towards the build of an in silico model for neural tube closure. This model can be used for the development of human-relevant Adverse Outcome Pathways and better prediction of chemical-induced health effects. The research is a collaboration between RIVM and the US Environmental Protection Agency. |