Do the sequence identifier rules affect 35 U.S.C. 112 requirements?
No, the sequence identifier rules do not alter the requirements of 35 U.S.C. 112. The MPEP clarifies:
“The rules do not alter, in any way, the requirements of 35 U.S.C. 112. The implementation of the rules has had no effect on disclosure and/or claiming requirements. The rules, in general, or the use of sequence identifiers throughout the specification and claims, specifically, should not raise any issues under 35 U.S.C. 112(a) or 35 U.S.C. 112(b).”
This means that while sequence identifiers provide a convenient way to reference sequences, they do not change the fundamental requirements for clear, concise, and enabling disclosures in patent applications.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology,
MPEP 2412.04 - Use Of Sequence Identifiers To Denote Sequences Disclosed In The Description Or Claims,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure