An 'expanded stick' model for coding Golgi-impregnated neuronal morphology

Abstract

A new model for coding Golgi-impregnated neuronal morphology, which can be implemented in any computer-assisted optical microscope, is described. This model, in addition to storing the three-dimensional coordinates of the selected neuronal points and their topological identifiers, codes for 'width', 'nature', and 'shape'. Thee 'width' code digitizes the width of a neuronal process. The 'nature' code can identify structures such as perikaryon, axon apical dendrite, basal dendrite, etc. The 'shape' code defines nodules and spines. Computer graphics routines are described for drawing nodules and spines as well as neuronal processes with 'width'.