Excel Autocorrect Breaks Gene Names

In 2016, researchers discovered that Microsoft Excel's autocorrect feature was corrupting vital genetic data. The program automatically converted gene names such as "MARCH1" and "SEPT2" into dates like "1-Mar" or "2-Sep," leading to corrupted datasets across the field. Studies showed that nearly 30% of published papers contained these hidden errors, forcing scientists to scramble for solutions. By 2020, the official gene committee had to rename 27 human genes to stop Excel from mangling decades of biomedical research.

Previous Fact Next Fact