Methods for counting cells supported by digital image processing

Abstract

Multi-parametric cell-chip-systems for live monitoring living cells and tissue in the field of examination of effective substances and medical diagnostics are gaining more and more importance. Digital image processing offers support for the microscopic controlling of monitoring systems for living cells. Thanks to the enormously increased power and capacity of computers within the recent years, an automatic survey of proliferation in a not invasive manner and without any influence on the relevant experiment is possible. On a molecular level cells are reacting very sensitive to changes in their enviroment, e.g. the contamination by toxic essences. Significant changes in the appearance of the cell culture will also be observed. The most evident indication, marking hostile conditions for living cells, is the decreased rate in growth of the cell culture. In addition the actual rate of cell propagation (splitting) might be used as a more accurate sign. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.