Neural crest cells are pluripotent migratory cells derived from the dorsal neural tube. Which of the following is NOT a neural crest derivative?
- A Dorsal root ganglia
- B Chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla
- C Notochord ✓
- D Melanocytes of the skin
Correct answer: C. Notochord
Explanation
The notochord is derived from the primitive node (epiblast cells migrating through the node during gastrulation) and is a mesodermal/axial structure that later induces the neural plate. It is NOT a neural crest derivative. Neural crest cells give rise to: dorsal root and autonomic ganglia, Schwann cells, melanocytes, chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla, C-cells (parafollicular cells) of the thyroid, craniofacial cartilage and bone, cardiac outflow tract septation cells, and many others.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.