42-Development of Vertebrae

The development of vertebrae is part of a complex segmentation process that influences the entire locomotor system. This mechanism begins with the establishment of the notochord, which plays a fundamental role in inducing the formation of the neural tube. The latter, by organizing along the longitudinal axis, structures the vascular system and leads to differential growth. The flexion of the ectodermal ring, a tissue derived from the epiblast, is crucial for the delimitation of the embryo and for interaction with the neural crests, providing essential information to the notochord.

The notochord is also responsible for the formation of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs, by interacting with the sclerotome derived from the somites. The latter is decisive in the formation of the vertebral bodies and vertebral arches, which develop according to longitudinal and transverse planes. Communication between the notochord, the neural tube, and surrounding structures is essential to guide vertebral development. Furthermore, dermatomes, segmented throughout the body, can reveal clinical links between skin pain and vertebral dysfunction, highlighting the importance of exploring associated vertebrae during clinical evaluation.