There is a direct correlation between the time of migration of neural crest cells from the neural tube and their developmental potential. For example, the cells that first begin to migrate have the potential to differentiate into many different types of cells. Crest cells that begin to migrate later are capable of forming only derivatives characteristic of more dorsal locations (e.g., spinal ganglia) but not sympathetic neurons or adrenal medullary cells. Those that leave the neural tube last are restricted to the dorsal-most pathway of migration and can form only pigment cells.