From MRIcro to MRIcron: The evolution of neuroimaging visualization tools.

Abstract

Visualization software is a critical component at every stage of neuroimaging research. It enables researchers to inspect raw or processed datasets for artifacts, to identify anomalies, to verify the accuracy of automated processing, and to interpret the location of statistical results within the complex structure of the human brain. Since 2006, MRIcron has provided a free, open-source, cross-platform tool designed to meet these needs. Despite its minimal system requirements, MRIcron supports various popular neuroimaging file formats, ensuring compatibility with widely-used tools in the field, such as SPM, FreeSurfer, FSL, and AFNI. The intuitive graphical interface allows for straightforward image visualization and manipulation, while its advanced features such as lesion drawing and ability to handle many image formats cater to more sophisticated analyses. Furthermore, MRIcron's scripting capabilities enable users to automate complex workflows, facilitating the efficient processing of large datasets. In summary, MRIcron is a powerful and versatile tool that addresses the visualization and analysis needs of the neuroimaging community, contributing to the advancement of brain research by providing a reliable and efficient solution for brain imaging analysis. This article describes the development of MRIcron, from its inception to the present day.