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Comparative Study
. 2003 Aug;19(7-8):537-9.
doi: 10.1007/s00381-003-0793-2. Epub 2003 Aug 12.

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

David G McLone  1
Affiliations
Comparative Study

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

David G McLone. Childs Nerv Syst. 2003 Aug.

Abstract

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.

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