The application of quantitative methods for the segmentation and extraction of features in digital images is critical for understanding the statistical importance of observations made in biological imaging. We work with a number of software packages to improve the automation of image segmentation and the export of measured parameters. Where possible, we streamline data analysis using open source and free software, to give researchers greater independence and to encourage wider collaboration. We are also working on ways to manage and process large data sets (up to 100s of gigabytes in size) to ensure we can avoid bottlenecks commonly associated with new technologies, which have continually increasing rates of data output.

Project resource:

Sleebs et al. Inhibition of Plasmepsin V activity demonstrates its essential role in protein export, PfEMP1 display, and survival of malaria parasites. PLoS Biol. 2014 Jul 1;12(7):e1001897. 

Team member: Lachlan Whitehead