Quantal Responses to Mixtures of Poisons

Abstract
Summary: Various models for the joint action of poisons are examined. An attempt is made to clarify the differences between similar and dissimilar physiological actions; in similar action, the poisons act at a common site, whereas in dissimilar action each acts at a different site. In order to allow for the influence of one poison upon the action of another, the concept of interaction is defined on a physiological basis. Relations between mortality and dose are constructed for each model, and methods of estimation and tests of significance are put forward. These are illustrated by data from insecticidal experiments. The set of models considered is by no means exhaustive, and it may sometimes be found that others are required to give a satisfactory description of comparable data.