Abstract: Automated sample analysis is performed by a computer-implemented apparatus and method for distinguishing objects of interest in an optical field from other objects and background in the optical field, collectively called background. Once an object has been identified, the color comprised of a combination of the red, green and blue components of the pixels occupied by the image of the object of interest, or another parameter of interest relative to that object can be measured and stored. This computer-implemented analysis apparatus and method is performed on objects of interest in the sample which are tagged using fluorescent tags. The sample may be a cell sample containing a nucleic acid target and the tagging achieved by fluorescence in situ hybridization.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided, whereby the level of an intracellular analyte in a cell containing sample may be determined. The apparatus is comprised of a microscope with an X-Y stage, a video camera, a computer adapted to receive video images from the video camera, and a software program for controlling the apparatus in accordance with the method. The method provided performs digital image processing so as to cause undesired features of a video image obtained by the video camera to be diminished, while desired features are emphasized. A measurement of optical densities of desired features may then be used to determine the level of intracellular analyte.