Automatic karyotyping of metaphase cells with overlapping chromosomes

Image analysis research aimed at analyzing images of banded, human chromoso mes is described. An experimental automated karyotyping system (AKS) has be en assembled. The goal of the system is to label the chromosomes from a met aphase image with minimal human intervention. The AKS is unique in that it is designed to automatically process cells containing overlapping chromosom es. It also has four novel algorithmic features: the use of cross section s equence graphs an over-segmentation-based segmentation strategy, the use of the 'pale path' concept for banded chromosomes and the application of math ematical programming for cell-level chromosome classification in cells with overlapping chromosomes. System performance was analyzed using a variety o f metaphase images exhibiting various levels of overlapping chromosomes. (C ) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.