Neural plate patterning: Upstream and downstream of the isthmic organizer

Two organizing centres operate at long-range distances within the anterior neural plate to pattern the forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain. important pr ogress has been made in understanding the formation and function of one of these organizing centres, the isthmic organizer, which controls the develop ment of the midbrain and anterior hindbrain. Here we review our current kno wledge on the identity, localization and maintenance of the isthmic organiz er, as well as on the molecular cascades that underlie the activity of this organizing centre.