Can sequence listings or tables be included in both the drawings and specification of a patent application?
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.
No, sequence listings or tables should not be duplicated in both the drawings and the specification of a patent application. The MPEP 608.02(d) clearly states:
If an application filed under 35 U.S.C. 111 or under 35 U.S.C. 371 includes a sequence listing or a table, such a sequence listing or table should not be included in both the drawings and the descriptive portion of the specification.
This requirement helps to avoid redundancy and potential inconsistencies between the drawings and the specification. Applicants should include sequence listings and tables in the appropriate sections of the specification only.