Abstract

Neural tube closure takes place during early embryogenesis and requires interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Failure of neural tube closure is a common congenital malformation that results in morbidity and mortality. A major clinical achievement has been the use of periconceptional folic acid supplements, which prevents 50–75% of cases of neural tube defects. However, the mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of folic acid is far from clear. Biochemical, genetic and epidemiological observations have led to the development of the methylation hypothesis, which suggests that folic acid prevents neural tube defects by stimulating cellular methylation reactions. Exploring the methylation hypothesis could direct us towards additional strategies to prevent neural tube defects.

Author affiliations

1. Laboratory of Pediatrics and Neurology, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Post Office Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
2. California Birth Defects Monitoring Program, 1830 Embarcadero, Suite 100, Oakland, California 94606, USA.
3. Departments of Endocrinology and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Post Office Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
4. Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, 2121 West Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.

Correspondence to: Henk J. Blom¹ Email: H.Blom@cukz.umcn.nl

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