Image Stack Module

• Analyze 3D image stacks obtained from confocal microscopes
• Perform detailed morphometric analysis on confocal specimens
• Perform 3D neuron reconstruction and analysis on confocal specimens
• Perform stereological analysis on confocal specimens
• Work with structures contained in sets of multiple image stacks

The Image Stack Module, a plug-in extension to the Neurolucida and Stereo Investigator programs, can read image stacks from confocal and brightfield microscopes in image files such as Zeiss LSM, Biorad PIC format, Olympus Fluoview format, as well as image stacks comprised of a series of TIFF, JPEG, or BMP files. All of the capabilities of the standard Neurolucida and Stereo Investigator programs are still available when using the Image Stack Module.

The Image Stack Module allows you to focus through a confocal image stack in real-time. You may specify the exact focal distance between image planes. The module automatically keeps track of the depth (Z-axis) values while you trace. This allows you to perform such tasks as 3D neuron reconstruction and stereology with the same ease as with a standard brightfield microscope. There is no limit to the number of images in a stack. You may even work with structures that are contained in multiple image stacks, allowing you to break the “single stack boundary”.

For many investigators, the Image Stack Module has permitted the first extensive morphometric analysis of their confocal images. If you currently view specimens with a confocal microscope, even difficult to analyze structures such as neurons, nerve fibers, or capillaries—the Image Stack Module will add a quantitative dimension to your research