Image analysis of 2D gels: considerations and insights.

2D gel experiments require computer based analysis when the number of gels exceed four and quantitative information is required. Computer based systems should first perform the required tasks and should do so with enough ease and logic that users in a biological laboratory can easily use it on an intermittent basis. Considerations for analysis systems including input device specifications needed, computer hardware configurations and software tools are discussed and compared to the application requirements. The components of this system are then examined as a whole to envision how the total solution should function optimally in an biological laboratory.