How does the written description requirement apply to biological deposits in patent applications?

The written description requirement, as applied to biological deposits in patent applications, is based on 35 U.S.C. 112(a). According to MPEP 2411.01: “A rejection for lack of written description typically arises in the context that the application as filed does not contain a description to support an amendment to the specification or claims, although it…

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What are secondary considerations in patent law?

Secondary considerations, also known as objective indicia of non-obviousness, are factors considered in patent law when evaluating the non-obviousness of an invention. These factors can include unexpected results, commercial success, long-felt but unsolved needs, and failure of others. However, it’s important to note that secondary considerations are not applicable to all types of patent rejections.…

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Can inoperative prior art be used in patent rejections?

Yes, inoperative prior art can be used in patent rejections. The MPEP 2121.01 clearly states: “Even if a reference discloses an inoperative device, it is prior art for all that it teaches.” This principle has several important implications: An inoperative device can still provide valuable teachings about its components or methods. The overall inoperability of…

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How can indefiniteness rejections arise from biological deposit issues in patent applications?

Indefiniteness rejections related to biological deposit issues in patent applications can arise under 35 U.S.C. 112(b). According to MPEP 2411.01: “A rejection for indefiniteness, as applied to a deposit issue, requires the examiner to provide reasons why the terms in the claims and/or scope of the invention are unclear because of an incomplete or inaccurate…

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How are rejections under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 103(a) formulated?

Rejections under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 103(a) are formulated using form paragraph 7.21.fti. This paragraph provides the basic structure for stating the rejection: Claim [1] is/are rejected under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 103(a) as being unpatentable over [2]. The examiner fills in the claim numbers being rejected in bracket [1] and the prior art reference(s) being relied…

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What are form paragraphs in patent examination?

Form paragraphs are standardized text blocks used by patent examiners when drafting office actions. They help ensure consistency and efficiency in patent examination. For rejections under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 103, the MPEP provides specific form paragraphs to be used, such as: 7.20.fti – Statement of Statutory Basis for pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 103(a) rejections 7.21.fti –…

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