To understand how neurons grow, connect or respond to treatments, researchers measure the length of their extensions, the neurites. This key step is still often performed by hand, image by image, slowing down studies that increasingly require large datasets. CABaNe offers a simple and free solution that fully automates this measurement, making high-throughput neuronal analysis accessible to any laboratory
CABaNe automatically analyses neuronal images by detecting nuclei, cell bodies and, crucially, neurites, which it measures without human intervention. It runs on any standard computer using ImageJ and requires no technical expertise. Compared with manual measurements and some machine-learning tools, CABaNe is far faster while maintaining high accuracy. It democratizes high-throughput neuronal analysis and allows researchers to process in minutes datasets that were previously difficult to handle.
Example of differentiated neurons. CABaNe automatically segments nuclei, cell bodies and neurites, illustrating how the tool identifies and measures neuronal extensions without human intervention.
CABaNe simplifies and accelerates neuronal analysis by making high-throughput workflows accessible and reliable. It paves the way for future tools and broader applications to other cell types.
Fundings
- Pfizer – Inserm (bourse de doctorat N. Thibieroz)
- GRAL – Graduate School CBH-EUR-GS (ANR-17-EURE-0003)
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- NR GlyCON (ANR-19-CE13-0031-01 PRCI)
- Programme “Investissements d’Avenir” Glyco@Alps (ANR-15-IDEX-02)
Collaboration
Bordeaux Imaging Center, CNRS, Bordeaux, France