The Human Genome Organisation (HUGO)

Abstract

The Human Genome Organisation (HUGO) was conceived in 1988 at the first meeting on genome mapping and sequencing at Cold Spring Harbor. Its original purpose was to promote international collaborative efforts to study the human genome and to address the myriad issues raised by knowledge of the genome including ethical and societal questions and issues around nomenclature. From a 42 scientists of 17 countries membership association, HUGO has increased its membership base to over 1,200 members from 69 countries. In 2008, HUGO past its 20th anniversary and decided on a change in its direction. With the original goal of sequencing the human genome accomplished, HUGO decided to focus on two outstanding issues: First,—HUGO will explore the medical implications of genomic knowledge (i.e., to seek the biological and medical meaning of genomic information—genomic medicine); and second, to enhance the genomic capabilities and to help fulfil the genomic aspirations of the emerging scientific countries of the world. The excitement and interest in genomic sciences in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are palpable and the hope is that these technologies will help in national development and health. So it is in these two areas in which HUGO will focus on over the ensuing years: the expansion of genomic medicine and greater engagement with the emerging scientific countries: