Which vitamin deficiency is classically associated with neural tube defects?

Which vitamin deficiency is classically associated with neural tube defects?

• A. Folic acid
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Vitamin A
• D. Vitamin D

Answer: (A)

Folate is essential for one-carbon metabolism, supporting the synthesis of DNA and the rapid cell division that occurs as the neural tube forms and closes in early embryogenesis. When folate availability is insufficient, DNA synthesis is impaired, which can disrupt neural tube closure and lead to neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. This strong, well-established link is why folic acid supplementation is recommended for women planning pregnancy or who are early in pregnancy, with about 400 micrograms daily helping reduce risk. Other vitamins don’t have the same clear connection to neural tube closure. Vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy, vitamin A deficiency is not the classic risk factor (and excess vitamin A can cause other congenital issues), and vitamin D deficiency relates more to bone health, not neural tube defects.

Folate is essential for one-carbon metabolism, supporting the synthesis of DNA and the rapid cell division that occurs as the neural tube forms and closes in early embryogenesis. When folate availability is insufficient, DNA synthesis is impaired, which can disrupt neural tube closure and lead to neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. This strong, well-established link is why folic acid supplementation is recommended for women planning pregnancy or who are early in pregnancy, with about 400 micrograms daily helping reduce risk.

Other vitamins don’t have the same clear connection to neural tube closure. Vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy, vitamin A deficiency is not the classic risk factor (and excess vitamin A can cause other congenital issues), and vitamin D deficiency relates more to bone health, not neural tube defects.