The etiology of neural tube defects: the role of folic acid.

DISCUSSION

While the cause of neural tube defects in humans is considered to be multifactorial, it is apparent that folic acid can prevent 70% of open neural tube defects. Even in laboratory animals with known genetic defects, folic acid can prevent the genetic expression.

CONCLUSION

While some of the metabolic pathways for folic acid are known, the true effects of folic acid on closure of the neural tube have yet to be discovered.