RetFM-J, an ImageJ-based module for automated counting and quantifying features of nuclei in retinal whole-mounts

Exp Eye Res. 2016 May:146:386-392. doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.07.020. Epub 2015 Aug 14.

Abstract

The present article introduces RetFM-J, a semi-automated ImageJ-based module that detects, counts, and collects quantitative data on nuclei of the inner retina from H&E-stained whole-mounted retinas. To illustrate performance, computer-derived outputs were analyzed in inbred C57BL/6J mice. Automated characterization yielded computer-derived outputs that closely matched manual counts. As a method using open-source software that is freely available, inexpensive staining reagents that are robust, and imaging equipment that is routine to most laboratories, RetFM-J could be utilized in a wide variety of experiments benefiting from high-throughput, quantitative, uniform analyses of total cellularity in the inner retina.

Keywords: Cell counter; Image analysis; ImageJ; Quantitative analysis; Retinal ganglion cell layer; Retinal whole-mount.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Count / methods*
  • Cell Nucleus*
  • Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted*
  • Diagnostic Techniques, Ophthalmological*
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Microscopy / methods
  • Models, Animal
  • Retina / diagnostic imaging*
  • Retinal Ganglion Cells / cytology*