The role of the symbol can affect its styling
The HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee endorses italicized human gene symbols when referring to genes, alleles and RNAs, and nonitalic forms for their encoded proteins. Its FAQ also notes that journal policies can differ and that the committee does not govern protein nomenclature. This is a specific human-gene convention, not a universal typography rule for all organisms or a claim that biology requires one font family.
Record the naming context before formatting
For an original biology diagram, identify which labels refer to a gene, an RNA, a protein or another structure. Keep the organism and source of the names with the working document. Do not apply a global italic change merely because the subject is biological. When the publication supplies its own style rules, compare them with the relevant nomenclature authority and resolve differences before creating many repeated labels.
Build a diagram label system that stays readable
Use Inter for an independent clean-label study and EB Garamond for a contrasting reading passage. These specimens show ordinary typography rather than certifying specialist notation support. Test the longest real label beside the smallest diagram component and avoid making every label equally prominent. A consistent hierarchy can separate panel letters, anatomical names and explanatory captions without introducing a new decorative face for each category.
Check the final figure and its caption together
Inspect a full-size exported proof and the reduced version readers will actually see. Confirm that italics remain distinguishable and that a line or arrow does not pass through a name. Preserve exact spelling and capitalization when fitting a label. Keep the caption near the figure and retain editable text for corrections. A novelty biology-themed headline can be used separately, but it should not replace the information structure of the scientific content.
Your questions, answered.
Does the HGNC convention apply to every species?
This guide cites the human-gene committee’s scope. Other organisms and journals need their relevant naming and editorial guidance.
Can the same symbol look different for a gene and a protein?
Yes. HGNC endorses italic gene-related symbols and nonitalic encoded-protein symbols, while acknowledging journal-policy differences.
Sources & background
Sources supporting this page’s explanations. Practical examples are our editorial suggestions.