25-10-2012, 11:07 AM
An Optimal Cell Detection Technique for Automated Patch Clamping
ABSTRACT
While there are several hardware techniques for the automated patch clamping of cells that describe the equipment
apparatus used for patch clamping, very few explain the science behind the actual technique of locating the ideal cell for a
patch clamping procedure.We present a machine vision approach to patch clamping cell selection by developing an intelligent
algorithm technique that gives the user the ability to determine the good cell to patch clamp in an image within one second.
This technique will aid the user in determining the best candidates for patch clamping and will ultimately save time, increase
efficiency and reduce cost. The ultimate goal is to combine intelligent processing with instrumentation and controls in order
to produce a complete turnkey automated patch clamping system capable of accurately and reliably patch clamping cells with
a minimum amount of human intervention. We present a unique technique that identifies good patch clamping cell candidates
based on feature metrics of a cell’s (x, y) position, major axis length, minor axis length, area, elongation, roundness,
smoothness, angle of orientation, thinness and whether or not the cell is only particularly in the field of view. A patent is
pending for this research.