loss of function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loss of function" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in medical or scientific contexts to describe a situation where a part of the body or a system is not working as it should. Example: "The patient experienced a significant loss of function in their left arm after the stroke."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Science & Research

Clinical Biochemistry

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Supplementary Figure 2 Functional evaluation of the p63 gain and loss of function H9 hESC lines.

Nature

ph505 is a loss of function allele of both genes7.

Nature

Conversely, loss of folds is correlated with loss of function.

Harvard University

Cystic fibrosis — that's a loss of function disease caused by a protein not folding correctly.

The New York Times - Science

Mutagenesis screen to identify loss of function missense variants in MCPH1 and MDC1 tandem BRCT domains.

Nature

Conditional loss of function studies are fundamental to reveal specific protein functions in complex biological systems.

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

W.Y. and J.L.R carried out the loss-of-function screen.

Nature

Allelic variants causing loss-of-function put human individuals at risk to develop obesity14.

Nature

Using the TALEN technology, we generated an ezh1 loss-of-function zebrafish line.

Nature

A loss-of-function screen reveals SNX5 and SNX6 as potential components of the mammalian retromer.

Nature

The garlic compounds may target one or more loss-of-function pathways in cancer cells.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the impact of a mutation, clearly specify the affected gene or protein and the resulting "loss of function". This provides context and clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "loss of function" without specifying the particular function that is lost. This can lead to ambiguity and make it difficult for the reader to understand the specific consequences being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loss of function" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It typically describes a condition or result. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage in various scientific articles. For example, "Heterozygous loss of function mutations in SHANK2 are associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

Science & Research

30%

News & Media

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "loss of function" is a noun phrase commonly used within scientific and medical literature to denote the reduction or absence of a normal biological activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and used effectively across a range of contexts, particularly within the scientific domain. When using this phrase, ensure you specify which function is affected to maintain clarity. Related terms like ""functional impairment"" and "diminished functionality" offer similar meanings with slightly different emphasis. The phrase maintains a formal tone suitable for professional and academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

functional impairment

Focuses on the reduced ability to perform a specific task or activity.

diminished functionality

Highlights a decrease in the overall operational capacity of a system or component.

impaired function

Emphasizes the negative impact on the proper working of something.

ablation of function

Suggests a complete removal or elimination of a specific function.

dysfunction

Indicates an abnormal or unhealthy state of operation.

functional deficit

Highlights the lack or shortage of a particular functional capability.

compromised function

Suggests that the function is weakened or made vulnerable.

failure of function

Indicates a complete cessation or breakdown of a specific function.

suppression of function

Highlights a reduction in the expression of function.

activity reduction

Focuses on lowering the activity of something.

FAQs

What does "loss of function" mean in biology?

In biology, "loss of function" refers to a mutation or other alteration in a gene or protein that results in a reduced or absent ability to perform its normal biological role.

How can I use "loss of function" in a sentence?

You can use "loss of function" in a sentence like this: "The mutation caused a "functional impairment" in the enzyme's ability to catalyze the reaction."

What is the difference between "loss of function" and "gain of function"?

"Loss of function" refers to a decrease or absence of normal activity, while "gain of function" indicates that the altered gene or protein now has a new or enhanced activity.

What are some examples of diseases caused by "loss of function" mutations?

Cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy are examples of diseases caused by "loss of function" mutations in specific genes.