Final answer:
Neural crest cells originate from the ectoderm layer of the embryonic germ layers. The ectoderm also gives rise to epidermal skin cells and has a major role during the organogenesis phase, determining the fate of the cells with the help of growth factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neural crest cells develop from the ectoderm, which is one of the three primary germ layers formed during the early stages of embryonic development. Specifically, as the embryo develops, a portion of the ectoderm differentiates into the neuroectoderm and forms the neural plate. The edges of the neural plate, known as the neural plate border, separate to form the neural folds which then converge to create the neural tube. Cells at the crest of these folds, the neural crest, migrate away to give rise to various cell types and tissues, including parts of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and non-nervous tissues such as craniofacial cartilage and bone, and melanocytes.
Answering the student's question, the neural crest cells develop from option 1) Ectoderm.
Regarding the related question on which layer gives rise to skin cells, the answer is a. ectoderm as it gives rise to the epidermis, which includes skin cells. The question about ectoderm cells determining their fate during organogenesis highlights that growth factors signal some ectodermal cells to form epidermal cells, while others form neural crest cells.