PUBLICATION

DMC-BrainMap is an open-source, end-to-end tool for multi-feature brain mapping in different species

Authors
Jung, F., Cao, X., Heymans, L., Carlén, M.
ID
ZDB-PUB-260211-9
Date
2026
Source
Cell reports methods : 101302101302 (Journal)
Registered Authors
Keywords
CP: computational biology, CP: neuroscience, DMC-BrainMap, Python, anatomical mapping, brain mapping, napari, reference atlas registration
MeSH Terms
  • Animals
  • Brain*/anatomy & histology
  • Brain*/diagnostic imaging
  • Brain Mapping*/methods
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods
  • Mice
  • Neurons
  • Rats
  • Software*
  • Zebrafish
PubMed
41666930 Full text @ Cell Rep Methods
Abstract
Rigid anatomical mapping is a necessity in current neuroscience research. Here, we introduce DMC-BrainMap, an open-source napari plugin designed as a user-friendly tool for streamlined processing and whole-brain analysis of anatomical data. Its core functionalities include all steps after image acquisition, i.e., preprocessing of images, registration of images to a reference atlas, segmentation of different anatomical features, and data analysis/visualization. DMC-BrainMap can be applied to histological data obtained from a variety of model organisms at different developmental stages to map a diverse range of features. We demonstrate the utility of DMC-BrainMap by mapping and quantifying the location of cell bodies, axonal densities, injection sites, optical fiber and Neuropixels tracts, (single-cell) spatial transcriptomics, as well as neuron morphology data in mice, rats, and zebrafish. By eliminating the need for programming by the user, DMC-BrainMap provides an easy-to-use tool for increased rigor, reproducibility, and data sharing in neuroscientific research involving animal models.
Genes / Markers
Figures
Show all Figures
Expression
Phenotype
Mutations / Transgenics
Human Disease / Model
Sequence Targeting Reagents
Fish
Antibodies
Orthology
Engineered Foreign Genes
Mapping