A hematopoietic stem cell's decision to become a certain cell type cannot be observed. At this time, it is only possible to verify the decision retrospectively with cell surface markers.Researchers have now developed an algorithm that can predict the decision in advance.
‘The new algorithm classifies light microscopic images and videos of individual cells by comparing these data with past experience from the development of such cells. In this way, the algorithm 'learns' how certain cells behave.’
Dr. Carsten Marr, head of the Quantitative
Single Cell Dynamics Research Group at the Helmholtz Zentrum München's
Institute of Computational Biology (ICB), said, "Deep Neural
Networks play a major role in our method," says Marr. "Our algorithm
classifies light microscopic images and videos of individual cells by
comparing these data with past experience from the development of such
cells. In this way, the algorithm 'learns' how certain cells behave."Three generations earlier than standard methods
Specifically, the researchers examined hematopoietic stem cells that were filmed under the microscope in the lab of Timm Schroeder at ETH Zurich.* Using the information on appearance and speed, the software was able to 'memorize' the corresponding behavior patterns and then make its prediction.
"Compared to conventional methods, such as fluorescent antibodies against certain surface proteins, we know how the cells will decide three cell generations earlier," reports ICB scientist Dr. Felix Buggenthin, joint first author of the study together with Dr. Florian Büttner.
But what is the benefit of this look into the future? As study leader Marr explains, "Since we now know which cells will develop in which way, we can isolate them earlier than before and examine how they differ at a molecular level. We want to use this information to understand how the choices are made for particular developmental traits."
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Source-Eurekalert