Unveiling CNS cell morphology with deep learning: A gateway to anti-inflammatory compound screening

Deciphering the complex relationships between cellular morphology and phenotypic manifestations is crucial for understanding cell behavior, particularly in the context of neuropathological states. Despite its importance, the application of advanced image analysis methodologies to central nervous system (CNS) cells, including neuronal and glial cells, has been limited. Furthermore, cutting-edge techniques in the field of cell image analysis, such as deep learning (DL), still face challenges, including the requirement for large amounts of labeled data, difficulty in detecting subtle cellular changes, and the presence of batch effects. Our study addresses these shortcomings in the context of neuroinflammation. Using our in-house data and a DL-based approach, we have effectively analyzed the morphological phenotypes of neuronal and microglial cells, both in pathological conditions and following pharmaceutical interventions. This innovative method enhances our understanding of neuroinflammation and streamlines the process for screening potential therapeutic compounds, bridging a gap in neuropathological research and pharmaceutical development.