TLM-Tracker: software for cell segmentation, tracking and lineage analysis in time-lapse microscopy movies.

ABSTRACT

MOTIVATION Time-lapse imaging in combination with fluorescence microscopy techniques enable the investigation of gene regulatory circuits and uncovered phenomena like culture heterogeneity. In this context, computational image processing for the analysis of single cell behaviour plays an increasing role in systems biology and mathematical modelling approaches. Consequently, we developed a software package with graphical user interface for the analysis of single bacterial cell behaviour. RESULTS: A new software called TLM-Tracker allows for the flexible and user-friendly interpretation for the segmentation, tracking and lineage analysis of microbial cells in time-lapse movies. AVAILABILITY: The software package, including manual, tutorial video and examples, is available as Matlab code or executable binaries at http//www.tlmtracker.tu-bs.de.