[Update] Sex and Gender Inclusivity in Pedigree Nomenclature

This focused revision addresses the need to denote sex assigned at birth and gender in pedigree nomenclature. It clarifies the use of symbols and language to ensure safe and inclusive genetic counseling for people who are gender-diverse or transgender.

Bennett, R. L., French, K. S., Resta, R. G., & Austin, J. (2022). Practice resource-focused revision: Standardized pedigree nomenclature update centered on sex and gender inclusivity: A practice resource of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. Journal of Genetic Counseling, 00, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1002/jgc4.1621

Signaling Inclusivity in Genetics Topics - Article by Karen G. Hales

College professor Karen G. Hales wrote this article suggesting options for gender-inclusive adaptation of language within genetics courses at the college undergraduate level. Topics include biological sex, parenthood, genetic traits, and pedigree charts. This article is open access through Life Sciences Education Journal, Vol. 19, No. 2.

Hales KG. Signaling Inclusivity in Undergraduate Biology Courses through Deliberate Framing of Genetics Topics Relevant to Gender Identity, Disability, and Race. CBE Life Sci Educ. 2020 Jun;19(2):es2. doi: 10.1187/cbe.19-08-0156. PMID: 32357097.

Gender-Inclusive Pedigree Charts

Pedigree charts are one of the most requested topics that we get from visitors to our website. We have built a guidance document below that will be continually updated. You can also view it on Google Docs.

Image https://www.theknowledgeroundtable.com/tutorials/decoding-pedigrees-made-easy/ What is a pedigree chart? A pedigree chart is a diagram that shows the occurrence of phenotypes through several generations of genetically related individuals. Because a pedigree chart is often confused with a family tree, and uses symbols to differentiate males and females, it is important for educators to give clear and inclusive messaging to their students about these charts.