A short guide to long non-coding RNA gene nomenclature

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Genomics
• Molecular Biology
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• The HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) is the primary authority for standardizing human gene nomenclature.
• The HGNC database contains over 38,000 approved gene symbols, encompassing protein-coding genes, pseudogenes, and non-protein coding RNA (ncRNA) genes.
• Over 8,500 human ncRNA genes and ncRNA pseudogenes have been named by the HGNC.

Discussion:

• Small ncRNA genes are classified by homology and function, with established naming conventions.
• Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) genes are diverse, defined by size (>200 bases), lacking conserved homology and exhibiting variable functions.
• The HGNC provides a guide for naming lncRNA genes based on characterized function, requiring author consultation before publication.

Key Insights:

• Standardized nomenclature is crucial for clear communication in genomics research.
• The HGNC addresses the challenge of naming the vast and functionally diverse lncRNA landscape.
• Naming strategies for lncRNAs prioritize function when known, and genomic context otherwise.

Outlook:

• Continued collaboration between HGNC and researchers is essential for comprehensive lncRNA gene naming.
• The HGNC aims to assign unique and meaningful gene symbols to all lncRNA genes.
• Future efforts will focus on resolving the functions of predicted lncRNAs to facilitate accurate nomenclature.