Loss of function can occur through various mechanisms, including genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, or direct interactions with toxicants. Genetic mutations can lead to the production of a non-functional protein or the absence of a protein entirely. On the other hand, epigenetic changes can alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence, leading to similar outcomes. Toxicants may bind to proteins, altering their structure and function, or interfere with the transcription and translation processes.
