Estimation of Purkinje cell quantification and volumetry in the cerebellum using a stereological technique

Abstract

Systematic sampling using the Cavalier’s principle provides accurate, efficient, cheap, and simple quantitative estimates of objects within neuroanatomical structures like the cerebellum. We identified and isolated the Purkinje cell layer and used this information to extrapolate the stereological technique to estimate the total number of Purkinje cells and volume on light microscope in rabbits’ cerebella. Volumes of the cell populations in the cerebellum have not been estimated previously. Using this method, we counted the Purkinje cells in the two right and three left hemicerebella of five male healthy rabbits and found the total number of Purkinje cells to have a mean of 671,597. The mean volume of the Purkinje cell was estimated at 2207 μm³ for the entire cerebella. The contribution of the stereological method to cell quantification and volumetry was emphasised by the neuroanatomical experimental animal study. The method proved to be an excellent tool for evaluating the Purkinje cell numbers and volumes in the rabbits. The data may also support the significance of considering anatomical data when evaluating pathological changes in cerebella. (Folia Morphol 2011; 70, 4: 240–244)