Automated Preprocessing and Standardization of Microscopy Videos for Studying Cell Migration

Cell migration plays a key role in numerous biological processes. One way to study it easily is by recording random migration films of adherent cells on a two-dimensional surface coated with extracellular matrix proteins. Analyzing the trajectories of individual cells from these films allows for the extraction of key parameters characterizing cell motility. Prior to trajectory analysis, preprocessing of the films is necessary to improve contrast quality and correct the stage movement of the microscope. This preprocessing is usually done manually and is time-consuming. In this article, we propose a global preprocessing approach for the database prior to analysis, which both ensures consistency between video sequences in terms of contrast, while preserving optimal image quality (PSNR of more than 32 dB) and enables a significant time gain of 91%. Thus, this paper presents an automatic preprocessing and standardization method for video microscopy images, an essential step prior to future analysis of cell migration trajectories.