Automatic analysis of G-banded human chromosomes by fast scanning microscope photometry. I. Basic principles and computer control.

A high resolution scanning microscope photometry system has been developed for use with standard G-banded chromosome preparations. Various alternative scanning methods and their limitations are reviewed. The computer algorithms which we use are described for the manipulation of the digitized image as produced by the microscope photometer; these include noise reduction and contrast enhancement as well as altering the orientation of the chromosome.