What are the requirements for sequence identifiers in a “Sequence Listing XML”?

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

According to MPEP 2412.05(a), sequence identifiers in a “Sequence Listing XML” must adhere to specific requirements:

• Each disclosed nucleotide or amino acid sequence meeting the requirements of 37 CFR 1.831(b) must appear separately in the “Sequence Listing XML”.
• Each sequence must be assigned a separate sequence identifier.
• Sequence identifiers must begin with 1 and increase sequentially by integers.

As stated in the MPEP: “In accordance with 37 CFR 1.832(a), the sequence identifiers in the ‘Sequence Listing XML’ must begin with 1 and increase sequentially by integers.” This ensures proper identification and organization of sequences within the listing.