What is the definition of “amino acid” according to MPEP 2412.03(b)?

According to MPEP 2412.03(b), the definition of “amino acid” is broad and inclusive. The section states: “‘Amino acid’ includes any D- or L-amino acid or modified amino acid as defined in paragraph 3(a) of WIPO Standard ST.26.” This definition encompasses not only standard L-amino acids but also D-amino acids and modified amino acids with synthetic…

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What is a “Modified Nucleotide” according to MPEP 2412.03(e)?

According to MPEP 2412.03(e), a “Modified nucleotide” is defined as follows: “Modified nucleotide” includes any nucleotide as described in paragraph 3(f) of WIPO Standard ST.26. Further explanation from WIPO Standard ST.26 states that a modified nucleotide is any nucleotide other than the standard DNA and RNA nucleotides. Specifically, it excludes: deoxyadenosine 3′-monophosphate deoxyguanosine 3′-monophosphate deoxycytidine…

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What are the rules for representing modified amino acids in WIPO ST.25 sequence listings?

What are the rules for representing modified amino acids in WIPO ST.25 sequence listings? The representation of modified amino acids in WIPO ST.25 sequence listings follows specific rules as outlined in MPEP 2423: “Modified amino acids must be represented as the corresponding unmodified amino acids in the sequence itself if possible. Any modified amino acids…

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How are L-amino acids and D-amino acids treated in patent applications?

According to MPEP 2412.03(b), both L-amino acids and D-amino acids are included in the definition of “amino acid” for patent applications. The MPEP states: “Amino acids will be construed as unmodified L-amino acids unless further described in a feature table.” This means that: L-amino acids are the default assumption and do not require special notation.…

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What are the key components of a sequence listing?

According to MPEP 2412.01, a sequence listing must contain the following key components: A separate sequence for each sequence disclosed in the application Use of the symbols set forth in WIPO Standard ST.25 (1998) A unique identifier for each sequence (SEQ ID NO:) Separate presentation of nucleotides and amino acids Enumeration of nucleotides and amino…

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How does indirect self-replication occur in biological materials?

Indirect self-replication in biological materials occurs when the material requires the presence of another self-replicating biological material to reproduce. The MPEP 2403.01 provides an example of this process: “Self-replication after insertion in a host is one example of indirect self-replication.” This means that some biological materials can only replicate when they are inserted into or…

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How can I access the WIPO Sequence Tool?

The WIPO Sequence Tool is freely available for download from the WIPO website. According to MPEP 2418: This tool is downloadable, free of charge, from the WIPO website. The current version of WIPO Sequence is accessible at www.wipo.int/standards/en/sequence/index.html. Users can download and install the tool to become familiar with its dual functionalities of authoring and…

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How can minor errors in Sequence Listing compliance be handled?

According to MPEP 2427, minor errors in Sequence Listing compliance can be handled efficiently to expedite the processing of applications. The MPEP states: “In order to expedite the processing of applications, minor errors pertaining to compliance with the sequence rules discovered after examination has begun may be handled with the next Office action.” Examples of…

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