MAPPER: A new image analysis pipeline unmasks differential regulation ofDrosophilawing features

Abstract

SummaryPhenomics requires quantification of large volumes of image data, necessitating high throughput image processing approaches. Existing image processing pipelines for Drosophila wings, a powerful model for studying morphogenesis, are limited in speed, versatility, and precision. To overcome these limitations, we developed MAPPER, a fully-automated machine learning-based pipeline that quantifies high dimensional phenotypic signatures, with each dimension representing a unique morphological feature. MAPPER magnifies the power of Drosophila genetics by rapidly identifying subtle phenotypic differences in sample populations. To demonstrate its widespread utility, we used MAPPER to reveal new insights connecting patterning and growth across Drosophila genotypes and species. The morphological features extracted using MAPPER identified the presence of a uniform scaling of proximal-distal axis length across four different species of Drosophila. Observation of morphological features extracted by MAPPER from Drosophila wings by modulating insulin signaling pathway activity revealed the presence of a scaling gradient across the anterior-posterior axis. Additionally, batch processing of samples with MAPPER revealed a key function for the mechanosensitive calcium channel, Piezo, in regulating bilateral symmetry and robust organ growth. MAPPER is an open source tool for rapid analysis of large volumes of imaging data. Overall, MAPPER provides new capabilities to rigorously and systematically identify genotype-to-phenotype relationships in an automated, high throughput fashion.Graphical abstract

Piezo regulates epithelial topology and promotes precision in organ size control

“…In a multicellular system, cytoplasmic levels of Ca 2+ within individual cells generate dynamic patterns of Ca 2+ throughout the entire tissue. Here, we report that inhibition of Piezo leads to severe phenotypic defects along with an overall size reduction in the adult Drosophila wing 74 . Overexpression of this mechanosensitive ion channels reduces the final wing size (Figure 1).…”

Microbial polyketides and their roles in insect virulence: from genomics to biological functions

“…236 Using a combination of AI and imaging data, AI-assisted analysis can predict cell structures, which are difficult to observe under a microscope, 237 reconstruct a biological model in the nervous system, 238 measure cell shape and segmentation in 2D and 3D, 239 and it has been used to uncover the role of ion channels in morphological features of Drosophila adult wings. 240 Interestingly, AI can also be used to analyze host–pathogen interactions to quantify intracellular pathogen infections, 241 distinguish cell morphologies that are difficult to observe under the microscope, 242 and identify microorganisms and biomarkers that suppress plant diseases. 243 AI is also a valuable tool in mimicking the biosynthetic pathway for building synthetic spinosyn, pinpointing residual activity to improve insecticidal activity, and discovering new active compounds.…”

Singular disposition of the posterior cross vein in a wing venation network

“…This vein, shown in red in Fig. 1, is commonly found in Drosophila species and is called the posterior cross vein (PCV) 3,5 . It emerges during a unique developmental process following the formation of most of the other veins 1,2 and varies in position among species 3 , implying a particular purpose.…”

“…1, is commonly found in Drosophila species and is called the posterior cross vein (PCV) 3,5 . It emerges during a unique developmental process following the formation of most of the other veins 1,2 and varies in position among species 3 , implying a particular purpose. However, the functions and advantages of this unique vein have not been explored prior to the present study.…”