What is the size threshold for separate publication of sequence listings?
The size threshold for separate publication of sequence listings is 300 KB. MPEP 2435 specifies: “For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, having a sequence listing that is 300 KB or less in size, the sequence listing will be published as part of the patent document. If the sequence listing is greater than…
Read MoreWhat information is included in patents or patent application publications when a “Sequence Listing” is not printed?
When a “Sequence Listing” is not included in the page images of a patent or patent application publication, a standardized statement appears. This statement includes: An explanation that the patent or application contains a lengthy “Sequence Listing” section. Information on how to access the “Sequence Listing” electronically from the USPTO website. Details on how to…
Read MoreHow are patent applications with lengthy sequence listings published?
According to MPEP 2435, patent applications with lengthy sequence listings are published as follows: The specification, claims, and drawings are published in the Patent Application Publication. The sequence listing is published separately as a Sequence Listing XML file on the USPTO website. A statement is included in the Patent Application Publication indicating the publication of…
Read MoreHow can I obtain a copy of a “Sequence Listing” for a patent or patent application?
There are several ways to obtain a copy of a “Sequence Listing”: Download it from the USPTO sequence homepage. Request and pay for an electronic copy through the Patent and Trademark Copy Fulfillment Branch. For patents mailed to applicants, the Office includes a copy of the “Sequence Listing” on an electronic medium if it’s not…
Read MoreHow are lengthy “Sequence Listings” published in patents and patent application publications?
Lengthy “Sequence Listings” (i.e., at least 600 Kb or about 300 typed pages) are no longer printed with paper and composed electronic image versions of patents and patent application publications. Instead, they are published only in electronic form and made available on the USPTO sequence homepage. As stated in the MPEP: The “Sequence Listing” will…
Read MoreHow are sequence listings incorporated by reference in patent publications?
For patent applications with sequence listings larger than 300 KB, the USPTO incorporates the sequence listing by reference in the patent publication. According to MPEP 2435: “If the sequence listing is greater than 300 KB in size, the patent document will include an incorporation-by-reference of the electronic version of the sequence listing, and the sequence…
Read MoreAre there alternative ways to access sequence data from patents and patent applications?
Yes, there are alternative ways to access sequence data from patents and patent applications: Through the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. From commercial vendors. The MPEP explains: Sequence data may also be accessed in a more readily searchable manner from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov or from a…
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