The Collection, Processing, and Display of Digital Three-Dimensional Images of Biological Specimens

Abstract

In general, the study and analysis of biological structure requires a three-dimensional (3D) imaging capability. Dramatic technical advances have now made it possible to record 3D microscopic images of biological specimens using either electron or light microscopy. While the collection of 3D data sets has now become routine, the analysis and interpretation of these images generally require significant time and effort. This is true, in part, because each type of image seems to require a specific set of processing algorithms and parameters. In addition, the software tools required for extracting useful information from the resulting complicated multidimensional data sets (e.g., three spatial dimensions, time, different components) are not completely developed. Computational image processing provides a powerful approach for reducing the systematic errors present in any 3D data set and enhancing the clarity and contrast of relevant features.