European network develops cost efficient image processing tools for pathologists, enabling the three-dimensional analysis and reconstruction of tissue samples
CiS Institute for Microsensors will be presenting a novel modular image processing software at Medica 2004, enabling the three-dimensional analysis and reconstruction of tissue samples in cancer diagnostics.
The solution was developed by a European consortium consisting of partners from Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom, and is said to offer advantages compared to conventional methods.
The software can be used in combination with any standard computer-controlled light microscope, instead of a laser microscope, resulting in a significant cost reduction. The virtual 3D image can be examined, manipulated and processed on the computer screen by the pathologist, allowing for a more accurate and reliable diagnosis.
With the application of this 3D visualisation technique, CiS says it is possible to solve such problems in tumour pathology as the localisation of protein in tumour cells and the identification of complete cell nucleus.
The prototype consists of a standard microscope with remote controllable table, digital camera, framegrabber and a personal computer.
The software modules for 3D imaging and volume analysis are compatible with any standard data and transmission protocols. Areas of application include molecular pathology, eg, in-situ gene analysis and diagnosis.
The members of the consortium involved in the project are Dimac (Denmark), Institute of Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital (Denmark), University of Edinburgh (UK), and CiS Institute for Microsensors (Germany).
The research and development activities of this project were funded under the 5th Framework programme of the European Union.
