Automated sperm head morphology analyzer for open-source software

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2011

Publication Title

Theriogenology

Volume

76

Issue

9

First Page

1756

Keywords

Sperm morphology, Sperm head, Automated Sperm Morphology Analysis, Sperm competition, Atlantic cod, Reproductive biology

Last Page

1761

Abstract

Sperm head morphology has been identified as a characteristic that can be used to predict a male's semen quality. In the present study, we have developed an automated sperm head morphology analysis (ASMA) plug-in for open-source ImageJ software (http://rsbweb.nih.gov/ij/). We describe the plug-in's functionality, and confirm its validity for sperm head morphology analysis using fish sperm. Sperm head morphological measurements (length and width) made with the ASMA plug-in did not differ from manual measurements. Using the plug-in to measure sperm head-shaped objects of known size, the associated plug-in error rate was < 0.5%. Brightness and contrast ratios influenced sperm head measurements, suggesting the need for standardized protocols. This plug-in was effective at measuring elliptical (i.e., Atlantic cod) as well as slightly irregular (i.e., Chinook salmon) shaped sperm heads. In conclusion, our ASMA plug-in represents a versatile alternative to costly sperm morphology software. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI

10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.06.019

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