What are the length thresholds for nucleotide and amino acid sequences requiring a “Sequence Listing”?

According to MPEP 2422.01, the length thresholds for nucleotide and amino acid sequences requiring a “Sequence Listing” are: An unbranched sequence of four or more amino acids An unbranched sequence of ten or more nucleotides The MPEP states: “Nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences as used in 37 CFR 1.821 through 37 CFR 1.825 are interpreted…

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What is a Sequence Identifier (SEQ ID NO) and how is it used in patent applications?

A Sequence Identifier (SEQ ID NO) is a unique number assigned to each disclosed nucleic acid and/or amino acid sequence in a patent application. According to MPEP 2422.01: “37 CFR 1.821(d) and 37 CFR 1.823(a)(5) require that each disclosed nucleic acid and/or amino acid sequence in the application appear separately in the “Sequence Listing”, with…

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What sequences must be included in the “Sequence Listing” of a patent application?

According to MPEP 2422.01, the following sequences must be included in the “Sequence Listing” of a patent application: All sequences, whether claimed or not, that meet the length thresholds in 37 CFR 1.821(a). Any sequence disclosed as a string of particular nucleotide bases or amino acids, regardless of whether the applicant considers it prior art.…

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How should sequence variants be presented in a patent application?

According to MPEP 2422.01, sequence variants in patent applications can be presented as follows: Present a single, primary sequence in the specification and “Sequence Listing” by enumeration of its residues. Discuss and/or claim variants of that primary sequence without presenting each variant as a separate sequence in the “Sequence Listing”. Annotate the primary sequence in…

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