The Colocalization Benchmark Source (CBS) is a free collection of downloadable images designed to test and validate the degree of colocalization of markers in fluorescence microscopy studies. It consists of computer-simulated images with exactly known (pre-defined) values of colocalization, ranging from 0% to 90%. They can be downloaded either in sets or individually. CBS is created by the authors of CoLocalizer apps to help with fluorescence microscopy experiments.
The images were created using BioSim software, as previously described. They simulate fluorescence microscopy mages with a sampling rate of 4 pixels per resolution element. If the optical resolution is 200 nm, the corresponding pixel size in the benchmark images is 50 nm. All images are completely free of background noise and out-of-focus fluorescence. Each image is 1024×1024 pixels in size.
These benchmark images can be used as reference points when quantifying colocalization in dual-color fluorescence microscopy studies. Using CBS can help obtain more accurate and reliable results in quantitative colocalization experiments and, ultimately, improve our understanding of the biological relevance of colocalization observations.
When you employed CBS images for reference in your publication(s), please let us know about it so that we can provide links to your paper(s) and results.
We are actively working to expand this database and its examples, and we encourage fellow scientists to submit examples of their own images where CBS was used to validate colocalization. Please consider contributing to CBS by submitting your images.
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