Readers of LEUKEMIA will know the fusion gene created by juxtaposing BCR to ABL1 by chromosome translocation causes chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), some cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and rare cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Similarly, juxtaposition of IGH and MYC is the driver mutation of some lymphomas. What is controversial is how these fusion genes should be designated. Until now the nomenclature varied with each scientist choosing their favorite designator, mostly a backward slash (/) or hyphen (-). In the typescript by Bruford and co-workers in this issue of LEUKEMIA [1] a group of experts under auspices of the Human Genome Organization’s (HUGO) Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) proposes using double colons (::) as the official designation for fusion genes. These may be written in italics or not, Examples are BCR::ABL1 and IGH::MYC. BCR, ABL1, IGH and MYC as human genes are always written in capitals and italics without additional symbols or punctuation. HGNC also proposes these gene juxtapositions be termed fusion genes. Other designations, some preferred by students of ancient Greek or orientated to haemopoietic cell transplants such as chimeric genes, are also acceptable.

As LEUKEMIA Editors we strongly support the HGNC recommendation and request authours use the HGNC nomenclature in future submissions to LEUKEMIA and other journals. The goal of HUGO and HGNC is to provide unique symbols and names for human gene loci including protein coding genes, non-coding RNA genes and pseudo-genes with the purpose of unambiguous scientific communication. Surely a noble objective.