Loss-of-function (LOF) approaches are powerful experimental tools for characterizing gene functions. However, emerging discrepancies when genes are investigated using different tools or organisms has triggered debate about how such LOF results should be biologically interpreted. In this Review, experts from varied fields discuss how understanding the underlying features of each LOF approach can provide explanations for different experimental outcomes and can guide their optimal and reliable application.
- Benjamin E. Housden
- Matthias Muhar
- Norbert Perrimon