What is a Computer Readable Form (CRF) in relation to Sequence Listings?

A Computer Readable Form (CRF) is an ASCII plain text file containing the sequence information related to the disclosure of nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences in a patent application. The MPEP 2421.01 defines it as follows:

The CRF is an ASCII plain text file of the sequence information relating to the disclosure of the nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences using the symbols, format, content and file requirements of 37 CFR 1.822.

The CRF is required under certain circumstances as per 37 CFR 1.821(e). It can be submitted on a read-only optical disc or as an ASCII plain text file via the Office patent electronic filing system.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology, MPEP 2421.01 - Definition Of "Sequence Listing" And Computer Readable Form (Crf), Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: Biotechnology, Computer Readable Form, Crf, patent applications, sequence listing