Question

What nutrient deficiency in the mother's diet could threaten the closure of the neural tube in a developing embryo?

Answer 1

A deficiency of maternal folate can threaten the closure of the neural tube in a developing embryo, resulting in neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.

Step-by-step explanation:

A deficiency of maternal folate in the first weeks of pregnancy can threaten the closure of the neural tube in a developing embryo. Folate, one of the B vitamins, is important for the healthy development of the neural tube. Without enough folate, the neural tube may fail to close properly, resulting in neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.