Neural Induction in Epidermal Explants in Liquid Medium

Abstract

1. Epidermal explants of axolotl gastrulae were cultivated for not less than 10 days in plain salt solution and that containing a water-soluble derivative of a carcinogenetic hydrocarbon, Na-1:2:5:6-dibenzanthracene-α-β-endo-succinate. 2. None of the explants in the control series showed neurulation, while over 60% of those in the experimental series showed definite and extensive neural differentiation. 3. The induced neural structures were in the form of more or less radially symmetrical neural balls, with no regional differentiations. 4. By avoiding the use of a solid implant and thus eliminating any possible mechanical role of an inductor, it proves clearly that, as far as evocation is concerned, the chemical action alone of the evocator constitutes an adequate stimulation.