Date of Award
Spring 5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
November 2026
College Granting Degree
Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Terje Hill
Abstract
Advancements in microscopy and computational analysis have revolutionized the way neuroscientists study the brain at the molecular and cellular levels. In neuroscience research, microscopy techniques have evolved to enable detailed molecular labeling and visualization, generating insight into neuronal morphology and operational dynamics. These highly capable imaging techniques are essential for investigating how neurons interact and form networks, as well as how various molecular markers behave in response to stimuli or during disease processes. Moving beyond qualitative insight, the development of computational analysis methods for microscopy has enabled scientists to draw quantifiable conclusions from their image data. In the context of neuroscience, computational analysis retains applicability to object segmentation, punctal quantification, molecular distribution analysis, and modeling dynamic processes. The involvement of machine learning algorithms in the field further enables extraction of image features and patterns not evident to the human researcher. As these methods continue to evolve, they will help unravel the complex biochemical pathways involved in neurological disorders, even expanding into predictive modeling as a basis for evaluating therapeutic candidates.
Recommended Citation
Mayorga, Natasha, "Applications of Microscopy in Neuroscience: A Review of Imaging and Analysis Techniques" (2025). Harriet L Wilkes Honors College Theses 2020 - Present. 273.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_honors/273