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Related Experiment Videos

Doubt and certainty in counting.

R W Guillery1, B K August

  • 1Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, 1300 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA. rguiller@facstaff.wisc.edu

Progress in Brain Research
|July 30, 2002
PubMed
Summary

Choosing the right method for counting objects in histological sections depends on accuracy needs, sample type, and object size. Profile counts work for small objects, while disectors are better for larger or variable ones, with careful consideration of assumptions for accurate results.

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Area of Science:

  • Histology
  • Microscopy
  • Stereology

Background:

  • Accurate quantification of cellular and tissue components is crucial in histology.
  • Various counting methods exist, each with specific applications and limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss and compare methods for counting objects in histological sections.
  • To guide the selection of appropriate counting techniques based on experimental variables.

Main Methods:

  • Profile counting for small objects relative to section thickness.
  • Physical disector for large or dimensionally variable objects.
  • Optical disector for light microscopy, noting potential biases.

Main Results:

  • Profile counts are efficient for small, well-defined objects.

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  • Physical disectors offer robustness for objects with unknown or variable dimensions.
  • Optical disectors are user-friendly but require careful assumption validation to avoid bias.

    • Conclusions:

    • Method selection for histological object counting is contingent on factors like accuracy, sample preparation, object size, and available resources.
    • Understanding the assumptions and limitations of each method, particularly disectors, is vital for reliable quantification.
    • Special considerations are needed for electron microscopy due to section thinness and depth of field issues.