Cell analysis method and cell analysis system using a holographic microscope

Abstract

A cell area extraction unit () extracts a cell area in a phase image that is created based on a hologram obtained by in-line holographic microscope (IHM). A background value acquisition unit () obtains a background value from phase values at a plurality of positions outside the cell area. An intracellular phase value acquisition unit () averages a plurality of phase values on a sampling line set at a position close to the periphery of a cell, while avoiding a central portion in which the phase value may be lowered in the cell area, to obtain an intracellular phase value. A phase change amount calculation unit () obtains the difference between the intracellular phase value and the background value. A phase change amount determination unit () compares the value of the difference with thresholds in two levels to determine whether the cell is in an undifferentiated state or an undifferentiation deviant state. It is thereby possible to automatically make a correct determination while removing the influence of a theoretical measurement error by IHM.