Performance evaluation of a second generation metaphase finder for chromosome-based radiation dosimetry.

Abstract

To be useful, a metaphase chromosome finder must be able to quickly identify chromosome spreads, rank them in terms of analysability and relocate them for visual examination at high magnification. In addition, the system should use state-of-the-art technology which is commercially available at competitive prices. The metaphase finder described here uses an 8-bit CCD camera (640 × 480 pixel resolution) and an Olympus BX-50 microscope with a × 20 apochromat objective. The camera composite video signal is connected to an image processing card (Matrox “COMET” card) for a final image resolution of 2.4 × 2.4 μm (5.8 μm2) per pixel for a 100 × 80 μm field of view. The microscope stage movements and focusing are under software control (illumination and filter selection are manual). Miniature motors (MicroMo 1616 series) and reduction gearboxes were retrofitted to a standard Olympus microscope stage and to the fine focus control shaft.