What information must be included in a reference to deposited biological material?

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 PCT Rule 13bis.3(a), a reference to deposited biological material must include:

• The name and address of the depositary institution
• The date of deposit of the biological material
• The accession number given to the deposit by the institution
• Any additional matter notified to the International Bureau, if applicable

For U.S. requirements, additional information may be needed, such as “a taxonomic description of the biological material” to the extent possible.