A G Nikonenko1. 1. Department of Cytology, Histology and Developmental Biology, Kiev University, Ukraine.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Stereologic analysis can be supported using methods of modeling and simulation. To illustrate the use of a mathematical cell sectioning model (CSM) in predicting two-dimensional (2-D) measurement characteristics of sectioned cells by means of computer-assisted simulation, the present study was performed. STUDY DESIGN: Computer software based on the CSM was developed to simulate 2-D nuclear/cytoplasmic (N/C) ratio distributions and to test the sensitivity of the parameter to several factors. Simulations were performed with the following feature set for cells of simulated populations: (1) size, shape (approximated by an ellipsoid of rotation) and orientation of the cell, and (2) size, shape and intracellular position of the nucleus. RESULTS: The computer tests showed that the value of the 2-D N/C ratio depends upon many factors; the real three-dimensional N/C ratio is only one. Statistical characteristics of a 2-D N/C ratio sample were found to be sensitive to changes in (1) the nuclear position inside the cell, (2) cell shape, and (3) orientation of the asymmetric cell with respect to a cutting plane. CONCLUSION: CSM tests demonstrated the model validity of and potentials for using it as an algorithm for morphometry software. Taking into account the sensitivity of the 2-D N/C ratio parameter to various factors, great care must be used in interpreting its observations.
OBJECTIVE: Stereologic analysis can be supported using methods of modeling and simulation. To illustrate the use of a mathematical cell sectioning model (CSM) in predicting two-dimensional (2-D) measurement characteristics of sectioned cells by means of computer-assisted simulation, the present study was performed. STUDY DESIGN: Computer software based on the CSM was developed to simulate 2-D nuclear/cytoplasmic (N/C) ratio distributions and to test the sensitivity of the parameter to several factors. Simulations were performed with the following feature set for cells of simulated populations: (1) size, shape (approximated by an ellipsoid of rotation) and orientation of the cell, and (2) size, shape and intracellular position of the nucleus. RESULTS: The computer tests showed that the value of the 2-D N/C ratio depends upon many factors; the real three-dimensional N/C ratio is only one. Statistical characteristics of a 2-D N/C ratio sample were found to be sensitive to changes in (1) the nuclear position inside the cell, (2) cell shape, and (3) orientation of the asymmetric cell with respect to a cutting plane. CONCLUSION: CSM tests demonstrated the model validity of and potentials for using it as an algorithm for morphometry software. Taking into account the sensitivity of the 2-D N/C ratio parameter to various factors, great care must be used in interpreting its observations.