neural crest differentiation

Neural crest differentiation is the process by which specialized cells called neural crest cells develop into diverse cell types in the body. These cells originate from the early nerve tissue of the embryo and migrate to different areas, where they become various structures such as parts of the skull, nerves, pigment cells, and some of the heart's components. This process is tightly regulated by signals in the developing embryo, guiding neural crest cells to acquire specific identities and functions, ultimately forming many critical tissues and cell types in the body.