Summary: Researchers in UCLA’s Department of Neurobiology have devised a novel software algorithm to significantly increase the speed of ImarisStitcher image processing, resulting in readily available, combined, aligned, high resolution microscopic images.
Background: Image stitching has emerged as a solution to the unique need for a complete high-resolution image of microscopic data when the subject exceeds the microscope’s field of view. Small images are overlapped and aligned to limit deformations in the data and produce clearer images for analysis. An industry-standard solution for this limitation in medical image aggregation is ImarisStitcher, developed by Oxford Instruments to provide high quality microscopic image processing. However, the current program ImarisStitcher has limited flexibility, slow response time, and requires significant storage space in the terabyte range. To improve the state-of-the-art in medical image processing, there is an unmet need for an effective, speedy, image stitching service that can result in high quality, aligned images combining them together seamlessly
Innovation: UCLA BRAIN researchers Ian Bowman and Mitchell Rudd have developed an innovative software algorithm capable of enhancing the speed of ImarisStitcher operations by three to sixfold. The algorithm further allows users to utilize large image volumes and simultaneously produce a combined high-resolution result with precise alignment. By eliminating systematic and nonsystematic errors from data acquisition, high resolution images can be produced readily. This innovation promises to significantly speed and augment the imaging applications and capabilities of ImarisStitcher.
Potential Applications: ● 3D image reconstruction ● Biomedical imaging for brain and organs ● Live-cell microscopy ● Medical mapping ● AI automated image analysis ● Digital pathology
Advantages: ● 3-6x speedier image processing ● High resolution imaging ● Capable of handling large volumes of images ● Precise image alignment
State of Development: The proposed software has been developed and tested to corroborate its use and advantages coupled with ImarisStitcher.
Reference: UCLA Case No. 2025-089
Lead Inventor:
Ian Bowman, Department of Neurobiology