Exposure to 2,5-hexanedione can induce neural malformations in chick embryos

► Chick embryonic neurodevelopmental deformity occurred following 2,5-HD exposure. ► 2,5-HD exposure resulted in neural tube defect (NTD) in developing chick embryo. ► In addition to NTD, the neurofilament-marked neuron differentiation was impaired. ► The neurite development in primary neuron culture in vitro was inhibited as well. ► 2,5-HD exposure abridged chick embryonic neuron's viability in MTT and MPP assays.