Problem 5 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

To contribute to the formation of a nervous system: a.the neural crest develops into motor neurons. b. the neural tube is converted into a neural plate. c. the notochord induces the overlying ectoderm to become a neural plate. d. the roof of the archenteron induces the formation of the neural tube. e. somites give rise to the autonomic nervous system.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct statement is (c): the notochord induces the overlying ectoderm to become a neural plate.

Step 1: Understanding the role of Neural Crest

The neural crest is a group of embryonic cells which eventually give rise to a number of structures within the body. They are important in the formation of peripheral and enteric neurons and glia, but they do not develop into motor neurons, so statement (a) is incorrect.

Step 2: Understanding the role of Neural Tube and Plate

The neural tube is not converted into a neural plate. Instead, the neural plate, a region of the ectoderm, folds and closes to form the neural tube. So, statement (b) is incorrect.

Step 3: Understanding the role of Notochord

The notochord plays an important inductive role in nervous system development. It is involved in inducing the overlying ectoderm to differentiate into neural tissue. Therefore, statement (c) is correct.

Step 4: Understanding the role of Archenteron

Archenteron is the primitive gut present in developing embryo. However, it does not have a role in directly inducing the formation of the neural tube, thus making statement (d) incorrect.

Step 5: Understanding the role of Somites

Somites give rise to the dermis and skeletal structures, and muscles of the body including axial skeleton. They do not give rise to the autonomic nervous system. So, statement (e) is incorrect.