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.