Uncovering emergent interactions in three-way combinations of stressors.

摘要: Understanding how multiple stressors interact is needed to predict the dynamical outcomes of diverse biological systems, ranging from drug-resistant pathogens that are combated and treated with combination drug therapies ecosystems impacted by environmental toxicants or disturbances. Nevertheless, extensive studies higher-order (more than two component) interactions have been lacking. Here, we conduct experiments using 20 three-drug combinations their effects on bacterial growth Escherichia coli We report our measurements rates in single, pairwise triple-drug combinations. To uncover emergent interactions, derive a simple framework calculate expectations for three-way based measured impact each individual stressor interaction. Using framework, find (i) antagonisms more common synergies (ii) rare would be inferred measures net do not disentangle interactions.