Imaging receptors by autoradiography: computer-assisted approaches.

Receptor autoradiography is one of the first fields where 'desktop' computer-assisted image analysis has been applied. Less than 10 years ago, the first image analysis systems were commercially marketed. Improvements on these early systems have been substantial and there are currently a wide variety of systems available for investigators. These systems dramatically reduce the time required for analysis, improve accuracy and increase the willingness to work in these areas. New techniques allowing autoradiography without emulsion will further expand opportunities for image analysis. While great strides have been made, significant affordable improvements are likely in the near future.