How 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 listing itself will be published as a separate document.”
This incorporation-by-reference statement in the patent publication serves to legally include the separately published sequence listing as part of the patent document, ensuring that the complete disclosure is properly recorded and accessible.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology,
MPEP 2435 - Publishing Of Patents And Patent Application Publications With A Lengthy "Sequence Listing",
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure