Statistical Analysis of Multiple Slope Ratio Assays

TLDR: In this article, an adaptation of Clark's procedure using response totals directly to compute the various slopes is presented. But the method of analysis given here applies only to assays in which the response for each preparation is a linear function of the dose.

Abstract: The statistical analysis of slope ratio assays for one test solution has been described in detail by Finney (1952), and routine methods of computation fully outlined, including tests for statistical and fundamental validity. Clarke (1952) has given a method for assays involving any number of test preparations, and this paper describes an adaptation of Clark's procedure using response totals directly to compute the various slopes, and gives a further analysis of the sum of squares associaated with the test for fundamental validity. The method of analysis given here applies only to assays in which the response for each preparation is a linear function of the dose. The assay design must be completely symmetrical, i.e. there must be equal spacing between the dose levels for each preparation, the same number of dose levels for each preparation, and equal replication for all treatments. It is generally preferable to run a test at the zero dose level since this gives improved tests for validity, Finney (1952), Wood and Finney (1946); but the suggested method is developed to cover assays with, and without, tests at the zero dose level.