Practical considerations for the use of the optical disector in estimating neuronal number.

摘要: The aim of this study was to establish methodological variability in the estimation total number neurones using optical disector. Variations 3 dimensions disector probe were analysed under uniform sampling conditions 50-μm-thick frozen sections human mediodorsal thalamic nucleus. There no significant difference between estimated neuronal samples variable height (fractionator vs. non-fractionator sampling). In addition, different methods volume calculation (individual sample an average) did not significantly change number. Large variations occurred when x and y altered. study, accurate reproducible estimates achieved large enough have a probability at least 2 cells per frame. We conclude that variables x-y plane (the frame size as well interval) contribute differences Several practical measurements estimate enhance experimental design are discussed.