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The interactive Web-based histology atlas system
J A Evans1, U Wagner, C M Santos
1Division of Computational Bioscience, Center for Information Technology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, MD 20892-5624, USA.
Abstract:
Molecular pathways and mechanisms underlying human cancer are frequently investigated in animal models. Studies to identify and dissect molecular pathways include the discovery of genes and their subsequent analysis in transgenic and 'knock-out' mice. A critical aspect in such investigations is the evaluation of organ integrity and histology upon the alteration or inactivation of specific genes. Results from such studies are usually published in scientific journals. However, due to print space and costs the display of large high quality images is limited. Furthermore, the printed media does not permit an easy comparison of histological images published in different journals and different years. The Internet provides a tool for the timely and inexpensive dissemination of scientific data to the research community. However, its potential for the analysis of histological images has not been explored. Here we present a web-based interactive histology atlas (http://histology.nih.gov) that permits the retrieval of annotated, high-resolution histology images via the Internet. This histology atlas also takes advantage of the interactive nature of the Internet to support the communication between different research groups. As an outline forum this atlas provides the framework to evaluate and understand cancer pathology, and to develop a consensus between veterinary and human pathologists.
Insights
This study introduces a web-based interactive histology atlas for cancer research. It allows researchers to access and compare high-resolution histology images online, aiding in the understanding of cancer pathology.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Bioinformatics
Background:
- Investigating human cancer molecular pathways often utilizes animal models, including transgenic and knockout mice.
- Evaluating organ integrity and histology is crucial after gene alteration or inactivation in these models.
- Current print-based scientific publications limit the display and comparison of high-quality histological images.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a web-based interactive histology atlas for accessing annotated, high-resolution histology images.
- To leverage the internet for improved dissemination and analysis of histological data in cancer research.
- To facilitate communication and consensus-building among researchers and pathologists.
Main Methods:
- Development and implementation of a web-based interactive platform.
- Integration of annotated, high-resolution histology images.
- Utilizing internet capabilities for data retrieval and interactive features.
Main Results:
- A functional web-based interactive histology atlas (http://histology.nih.gov) is now available.
- The atlas enables easy retrieval and comparison of histology images across different studies and publications.
- The platform supports enhanced communication and collaboration among research groups.
Conclusions:
- The interactive histology atlas addresses limitations of print media for disseminating and analyzing complex histological data.
- This resource facilitates a deeper understanding of cancer pathology and aids in developing consensus among pathologists.
- The web-based approach promotes efficient data sharing and collaborative research in oncology.