QuPath Automated Analysis of Optic Nerve Degeneration in Brown Norway Rats
Barbara A. Mysona, Sharmila Segar, Cecilia Hernandez, Christian Kim, Jing Zhao, David Mysona, Kathryn Bollinger
Abstract
Purpose: A novel application of QuPath open-source digital analysis software is used to provide in-depth morphological analysis of progressive optic nerve (ON) degeneration in rats. Methods: QuPath software was adapted to assess axon and gliotic morphology in toluidine blue-stained, Brown Norway rat ON light micrographs. QuPath axon numbers, density, size distributions, and gliotic areas were obtained from test images and ON cross-sections separated by damage grade. QuPath results were compared with manual counting, AxonJ, and electron microscopy axon estimates. Results: = 10). Conclusions: QuPath analysis reliably identified axon loss, axon morphology changes, and gliotic expansion that occurred in degenerating ONs. Translational Relevance: QuPath is a valuable tool for rapid, automated, analysis of healthy and degenerating ONs. Reproducible preclinical studies for new glaucoma treatments depend on unbiased in-depth analysis of ON pathology. This was provided by the QuPath approach.