What are the specific circumstances requiring biological material deposit for patent applications?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29

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.

Specific circumstances requiring biological material deposit for patent applications include:

  • When the biological material is not known and readily available to the public
  • When the invention cannot be practiced without access to the biological material
  • When words alone cannot sufficiently describe how to make and use the invention

According to MPEP 2404: “The invention may rely on biological material which is known and readily available to the public or reproducible from the written description.” However, if these conditions are not met, a deposit may be necessary.

Topics: MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology MPEP 2404 - Need Or Opportunity To Make A Deposit Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Access Records, Patent Application Content