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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2020.06.22.166140

ORACA: an open source software for Online Realtime neural Activity extraction and offline Cross session Analysis

Sheng, W.·Zhao, X.·Yang, Y.
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Abstract

The development of in vivo imaging and optogenetic tools makes it possible to control neural circuit activities in an all-optical, closed-loop manner [1], but such applications are limited by the lack of software for online analysis of neuronal imaging data. We developed an analysis software ORCA (Online Real-time activity and offline Cross-session Analysis), which performs image registration, neuron segmentation, and activity extraction at over 100 frames per second, fast enough to support real-time detection and readout of neural activity. Our active neuron detection algorithm is purely statistical, achieving much higher speed than previous methods. We demonstrated closed-loop control of neurons that were identified on the fly, without prior recording or image processing. ORCA also includes a cross-session alignment module that efficiently tracks neurons across multiple sessions. In summary, ORCA is a powerful toolbox for fast imaging data analysis, and provides a solution for all-optical closed-loop control of neuronal activity.

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Sheng, W., Zhao, X., Yang, Y.. 2020-06-24. ORACA: an open source software for Online Realtime neural Activity extraction and offline Cross session Analysis. https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.06.22.166140

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