# Researchers automate viral plaque counting in dengue vaccine assays

_Published Sunday, October 4, 2026 at 11:18 PM EDT · AI, Science · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

![Researchers automate viral plaque counting in dengue vaccine assays — Primary](https://bioengineer.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/stackrss-featured-301.png)

Researchers demonstrated CellVision, a deep learning system that fully automates viral plaque counting in high-throughput vaccine assays, BIOENGINEER reported. The image analysis platform separates fused plaques and distinguishes them from other objects without manual image review, replacing a task that consumes technician time and introduces differences between operators.

The researchers integrated CellVision into Merck & Co., Inc.'s µPlaque assay to support an investigational dengue vaccine. The system outperformed a commercial alternative in the study; the vaccine remains investigational.

## Sources

- [BIOENGINEER](https://bioengineer.org/ai-and-data-mining-take-center-stage-in-new-wave-of-drug-discovery-research/)

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Canonical: https://techandbusiness.org/newswire/z7H-t-QFqv8SrloHQsLEgV
Published: 2026-10-05T03:18:08.170Z
Story chronology: 2026-10-05T03:08:36.000Z
Retrieved: 2026-10-05T05:31:07.519Z
Publisher: Tech & Business (techandbusiness.org)