Quantitative analysis of surface wave patterns of Min proteins

The Min protein system is arguably the best-studied model for biological pattern formation. It exhibits pole-to-pole oscillations in E. coli bacteria as well a variety of surface wave patterns vitro reconstitutions. Such pose particular challenges to quantification they are typically only semi-periodic and non-stationary. Here, we present methodology quantitatively analysing such patterns, aiming reproducibility, user-independence, easy usage. After introducing pattern-feature definitions image-processing concepts, an analysis pipeline where use autocorrelation extract global parameters average spatial wavelength oscillation period. Subsequently, describe method that uses flow-field local properties propagation velocity. We provide descriptions on how practically implement these tools Python code can directly be used perform patterns.