Detection and Quantification of Tunneling Nanotubes Using 3D Volume View Images

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are primarily open-ended F-actin membrane nanotubes that connect neighboring cells, facilitating intercellular communication. The notable characteristic that distinguishes TNTs from other cell protrusions is the hovering nature of the nanotubes between cells. Here, we characterize TNTs by constructing a 3D volume view of confocal z-stack images.