Visualizing quantitative microscopy data: History and challenges

Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol. 2016;51(2):96-101. doi: 10.3109/10409238.2016.1146222. Epub 2016 Feb 24.

Abstract

Data visualization is a fundamental aspect of science. In the context of microscopy-based studies, visualization typically involves presentation of the images themselves. However, data visualization is challenging when microscopy experiments entail imaging of millions of cells, and complex cellular phenotypes are quantified in a high-content manner. Most well-established visualization tools are inappropriate for displaying high-content data, which has driven the development of new visualization methodology. In this review, we discuss how data has been visualized in both classical and high-content microscopy studies; as well as the advantages, and disadvantages, of different visualization methods.

Keywords: Cell phenotypes; data visualization; high-content analysis; microscopy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Humans
  • Microscopy*