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Size analyses and size classifications were made of the nuclei of embryonal mouse brain cells in monolayer culture. Measurements were made by surface analysis, using the Quantimet (1,299 nuclei), and linear analysis, using the Digiscan (1,887 nuclei). Despite the different methods of measurement and different logarithmic classification, similar distribution curves were obtained, approaching the Gaussian normal distribution. The methodical problems of karyometry as well as the problems of statistical data processing are discussed.

Studies were carried out on the nuclear size of embryonic mouse brain monolayer cells at various cell densities. The variation in cell density resulted from different initial cell numbers. The nuclear area was measured area-analytically with the Quantimet, the determination of cell population was measured linear-analytically using the Digiscan. Nuclear size remains constant in a cell culture of 104 up to 8.3 × 104 cells ml, which corresponds to a cell density of about 25–160 cells/unit. A significant diminution in mean nuclear size of the cell nucleus occurs in the case of increased cell densities of 215 and 277 cells/unit, corresponding to a cell culture of 2.5 × 105 and 7.3 × 105 cells ml. This diminution may be connected with the accumulation of Gl cell nuclei in cultures with contact-dependent growth inhibition.