Acto3D: an open-source user-friendly volume rendering software for high-resolution 3D fluorescence imaging in biology

Area of Science:

• Biological Imaging
• Microscopy
• Computational Biology

Background:

• 3D fluorescence microscopy and tissue clearing have advanced biological imaging.
• Existing software and hardware solutions are complex and costly, limiting accessibility.
• There is a need for accessible, efficient tools for high-resolution 3D image generation and analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce Acto3D, an open-source software for streamlined 3D fluorescence image generation and analysis.
• To provide an intuitive and cost-effective platform for researchers with limited resources.
• To enable detailed control over image reconstruction and efficient data processing.

Main Methods:

• Development of Acto3D, an open-source software with an intuitive interface for 3D data import and visualization.
• Leveraging integrated graphics processing units (GPUs) and system memory for efficient computation and reduced latency.
• Implementation of a novel method for efficient 3D extraction of lumen structures.

Main Results:

• Acto3D facilitates high-resolution 3D imaging and analysis of multi-fluorescently labeled samples.
• The software enables accurate image reconstruction and efficient data processing without requiring expensive hardware.
• Validated by imaging mouse embryonic structures and 3D reconstruction of pharyngeal arch arteries.

Conclusions:

• Acto3D is a cost-effective and efficient platform for biological research, democratizing advanced 3D imaging.
• The software enhances accessibility to high-resolution 3D image analysis for researchers globally.
• Acto3D supports detailed control and efficient processing, advancing the field of biological imaging.