Neural crest cells

Neural crest cells are a transient, multipotent embryonic population that arises at the border of the neural plate and undergoes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition to migrate throughout the embryo. They give rise to diverse derivatives, including peripheral neurons and glia, melanocytes, craniofacial cartilage and bone, and chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla. Defects in their development underlie neurocristopathies.