HGNC (HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee) Symbol

For human genes, we prioritize the HGNC approved symbol. The HGNC is the authoritative body for standardizing human gene names.

What is an HGNC Symbol?

• A unique, standardized name for human genes
• Approved by international experts
• Provides a consistent naming convention across scientific research

Example

If our database contains an ORF (Open Reading Frame) for a human gene, it will be displayed using its HGNC symbol instead of the internal ORF name.

Displaying Gene Names

When an HGNC symbol is available, our database will:

• Use the HGNC symbol as the primary gene name
• Display the original ORF or research name as a "Previous Name"
• Maintain traceability and historical context

ORF (Open Reading Frame) Name

For non-human genes or when no HGNC symbol is available, we use the internal ORF name.

• Unique identifier within our database
• Typically a numeric identifier
• Used as a fallback when no standard gene name exists