Computer-Assisted Image Processing Techniques for Quantitative Analysis of Cell Migrations on Collagen-Coated Glass

Abstract

In this study, a computer-assisted cell tracking system including an automatic image processing program for rapid and precise analysis of cell migration in various conditions was self-designed and L-929 cell migration on the glass coated with type I collagen was examined using this cell tracking system. Furthermore, computer-based image processing software, with the capture program to choose the capture interval and period, and analysis techniques were developed for quantitative analysis of the cell migration on extracellular matrices. The results showed that the migration speed of L-929 cells on the collagen-coated glass was significantly (p < 0.05) increased compared to the non-coated control. On the morphological observations, it was showed that the cells on the collagen-coated glass looked much healthier than those on the control. These results suggested that this cell tracking system would provide tools for the analysis of cell migration in various in vitro conditions and might be effective enough to evaluate various biological events including embryonic development as well as physiological and pathological tissue reorganization.