HGNC

The HUGO Genome Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) is the worldwide authority that assigns standardized nomenclature to human genes. [1] The HGNC is responsible for approving unique symbols (short-form abbreviation) and names for human loci, including protein-coding genes, RNA genes and pseudogenes, allowing unambiguous scientific communication. [1] The HGNC operates under the Human Genome Organization (HUGO) to fulfill its responsibilities. [2]

Once symbols become approved, they are stored in the HGNC database. Symbols must be unique so they can be talked about individually, and this also facilitates electronic data retrieval from publications and databases. [3] Currently, almost 33,000 symbols have been approved for use in information systems. Most of these symbols are for protein coding genes, but other symbols include pseudogenes, non-coding RNAs, phenotypes and genomic features. [3]

History

Submitted by Ben Lawrence