Automatic neural arbor reconstruction

An algorithm for detecting neural processes in serial optical sections for use in an automated three-dimensional neural reconstruction system is presented. This parsimonious, nonlinear, psychophysically motivated algorithm addresses the problems specific to neural element detection and localization, viz., images with minimal resolution, operators with small spatial supports, highly curved, filamentous features, large variation in feature intensity profile, poor signal-to-noise ratio, and determination of depth without stereo. One first finds the magnitude and orientation of the maximum intensity second directional derivative. A family of curves is locally fitted to these data, and the projections of the data on the curve family are found. If a pixel lies on a curve with sufficient total projection, it is labeled with the magnitude, orientation, curvature, spatial extent, and element displacement. Depth is interpolated from the spatial extent data for corresponding neighborhoods in three adjacent (in depth) images by using an approximation to the depth-dependent optical point spread function. Experimental results using photomicrographs of cat visual cortex are presented.<>