Abstract

The visualization of the dynamic behaviour of and interactions between immune cells using time-lapse video microscopy has an important role in modern immunology. To draw robust conclusions, quantification of such cell migration is required. However, imaging experiments are associated with various artefacts that can affect the estimated positions of the immune cells under analysis, which form the basis of any subsequent analysis. Here, we describe potential artefacts that could affect the interpretation of data sets on immune cell migration. We propose how these errors can be recognized and corrected, and suggest ways to prevent the data analysis itself leading to biased results.

Author affiliations

1. Theoretical Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.
2. John Innes Centre, Norwich Research park, Colney, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK.

Correspondence to: Joost B. Beltman¹ Email: J.B.Beltman@uu.nl

Published online 16 October 2009

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