Sholl analysis

• • Summary:**

Sholl analysis is a morphometric method used to study neuronal structure by analyzing the intersections of dendrites with concentric circles (shells) centered on the cell body. Developed by Zacharias Sholl in 1952, it provides insights into arbor complexity, branching patterns, and density. By counting these intersections at various distances from the soma, researchers can quantify dendritic properties.

The analysis involves several methods:

Despite its utility, Sholl analysis has limitations. It struggles with comparing neurons of vastly different sizes or morphologies and cannot measure individual dendrite length or thickness accurately. Additionally, it can be time-consuming and requires specialized software.

Automated tools like open-source Fiji plugins facilitate high-throughput studies, enabling researchers to analyze large datasets efficiently. Overall, Sholl analysis remains a valuable tool for understanding neuronal morphology but should be complemented with other methods when necessary.