Meshworks Analyzer: Quantitative analysis software for super-resolved actin cortex architecture

Abstract

The Meshworks Analyzer software is developed to quantify the network architecture of actin filaments in the actin cortex of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). As observed by super-resolution microscopy, the actin cortex of mESCs exhibits an isotropic meshwork organization interspersed with locally radial architecture. After segmentation based on network pores, Meshworks Analyzer is able to provide quantitative parameters, such as pore area, pore edge length, estimated pore vertex angle, and overall filament density to reflect network density and geometry. This software contributes in-depth analysis of the unique actin cortex meshwork in mESCs and enables quantitative comparison of network architecture between pharmacological treatments or genetic manipulations, thus allowing image-based molecular mechanistic dissection. © 2021 The Author(s)