Statistical analysis of combined dose effects for experiments with two agents.
OBJECTIVE
Classical isobologram analysis offers a way for analysing combined drug effects in dose-response experiments statistically. The aim is to determine as to whether two agents or drugs can be considered synergistic or antagonistic in their effect.


METHODS
We describe a MATLAB-based software tool for automated isobologram analysis and computation of combination indices. Statistical issues like estimation together with respective confidence intervals are of key interest. Additional predictive values are computed to facilitate a more easy interpretation of obtained results.


RESULTS
Analysis of an experimental and a real in vitro data set demonstrates the approach and the way of interpreting results. Results are summarized in two ways: tables and graphical displays containing classical isobolograms.


CONCLUSIONS
Our package supplements the clinical software-equipment and is a tool for automatic evaluation of combined dose-response experiments in experimental oncology in the urologic clinic.
Institut für Medizinische Statistik und Epidemiologie der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaninger Str. 22, D-81675 München, Germany. stefan.wagenpfeil@imse.med.tu-muenchen
Stefan
S
Wagenpfeil
Uwe
U
Treiber
Antonie
A
Lehmer
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D045744:Cell Line, Tumor; D002470:Cell Survival / Q000187:drug effects; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D000077143:Docetaxel; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004347:Drug Interactions; D017313:Fenretinide / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D020128:Inhibitory Concentration 50; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D015233:Models, Statistical; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D012984:Software; D043823:Taxoids / Q000494:pharmacology
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D043823:Taxoids; D000077143:Docetaxel; D017313:Fenretinide