Dataset Information

Semi-automated quantification and neuroanatomical mapping of heterogeneous cell populations.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Our group studies the interactions between cells of the brain and the neurotropic parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Using an in vivo system that allows us to permanently mark and identify brain cells injected with Toxoplasma protein, we have identified that Toxoplasma-injected neurons (TINs) are heterogeneously distributed throughout the brain. Unfortunately, standard methods to quantify and map heterogeneous cell populations onto a reference brain atlas are time consuming and prone to user bias.

New method

We developed a novel MATLAB-based semi-automated quantification and mapping program to allow the rapid and consistent mapping of heterogeneously distributed cells on to the Allen Institute Mouse Brain Atlas. The system uses two-threshold background subtraction to identify and quantify cells of interest.

Results

We demonstrate that we reliably quantify and neuroanatomically localize TINs with low intra- or inter-observer variability. In a follow up experiment, we show that specific regions of the mouse brain are enriched with TINs.

Comparison with existing methods

The procedure we use takes advantage of simple immunohistochemistry labeling techniques, use of a standard microscope with a motorized stage, and low cost computing that can be readily obtained at a research institute. To our knowledge there is no other program that uses such readily available techniques and equipment for mapping heterogeneous populations of cells across the whole mouse brain.

Conclusion

The quantification method described here allows reliable visualization, quantification, and mapping of heterogeneous cell populations in immunolabeled sections across whole mouse brains.

SUBMITTER: Mendez OA

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6357967 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Publications

Semi-automated quantification and neuroanatomical mapping of heterogeneous cell populations.

Mendez Oscar A OA Potter Colin J CJ Valdez Michael M Bello Thomas T Trouard Theodore P TP Koshy Anita A AA

Journal of neuroscience methods 20180518

<h4>Background</h4>Our group studies the interactions between cells of the brain and the neurotropic parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Using an in vivo system that allows us to permanently mark and identify brain cells injected with Toxoplasma protein, we have identified that Toxoplasma-injected neurons (TINs) are heterogeneously distributed throughout the brain. Unfortunately, standard methods to quantify and map heterogeneous cell populations onto a reference brain atlas are time consuming and prone ...[more]

PMID: 29782884

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Dataset Information

Semi-automated quantification and neuroanatomical mapping of heterogeneous cell populations.

Background

New method

Results

Comparison with existing methods

Conclusion

Publications

Semi-automated quantification and neuroanatomical mapping of heterogeneous cell populations.

Similar Datasets

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