What is the purpose of the exclusive conformance requirement for sequence presentation?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30

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.

The exclusive conformance requirement for sequence presentation in patent applications serves a specific purpose. According to MPEP 2412.06:

“This requirement is necessary to minimize any confusion that could result if more than one format for representing sequence data was employed in a given application.”

By enforcing a standardized format for sequence representation, the USPTO aims to:

  • Ensure consistency across patent applications
  • Facilitate easier review and comparison of sequence data
  • Reduce potential misinterpretations or ambiguities in sequence information
  • Streamline the patent examination process for biotechnology-related inventions

This requirement applies to all applications filed on or after July 1, 2022, that disclose nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences as defined in 37 CFR 1.831(b).

Topics: MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology MPEP 2412.06 - The Requirement For Exclusive Conformance; Sequences Presented In Drawing Figures Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Sequence Format