MATLAB is ideal for creating custom analysis pipelines or developing new algorithms, and it also has the capability for compiling programs into standalone executables with user-friendly interfaces.

Features

• Widely-used tool for image processing, featured in numerous peer-reviewed publications.
• Focus on efficient processing of numerical arrays makes it ideal for implementation and development of image processing algorithms.
• Includes large library of standard image processing tools covering areas including image filtering, segmentation, data acquisition, visualisation and quantification.
• Compatible with .lif files produced by Leica LAS (requires BioFormats reader – available free online). 

Advantages

• Versatile scripting language is ideal for development of image processing routines, providing near limitless scope for new analysis methods.
• Can be used to create standalone executables, which don’t require a copy of MATLAB to run (requires relevant runtime to be installed; available free online).
• Constantly updated online repository containing thousands of user-generated image processing routines and algorithms.

Disadvantages

• Relatively steep learning curve compared to other image processing and analysis software.

Availability

• Commercial software requiring a license.
• Can be installed on University of Bristol computers via Software Center (full MATLAB suite, including all additional toolboxes).
• Can be installed on personal computers by staff and students (see Additional Information).
• Available on image processing computers in room C27/U (data analysis suite). Access to this computer can be booked on PPMS.

Additional information

• MATLAB course material
• Download MATLAB for personal computer 
• Active online forum and repository of user-generated functions at MATLAB Central 
• BioFormats toolbox for importing Leica .lif files