How are unknown nucleotides represented in a patent application?

According to MPEP 2412.05(b), unknown nucleotides in patent applications should be represented as follows:

• Use the symbol “n” to represent any unknown nucleotide in the sequence
• Further describe the unknown nucleotide in a feature table using the feature key “unsure”
• The symbol “n” is equivalent to only one residue

The MPEP states, “Any “unknown” nucleotide must be represented by the symbol “n” in the sequence. An “unknown” nucleotide should be further described in a feature table using the feature key “unsure”.” This approach ensures clarity in representing and describing unknown nucleotides in patent applications.

For more information on feature tables, refer to MPEP 2413.01(g), subsection I.

To learn more:

• unknown nucleotides
• sequence representation
• WIPO Standard ST.26
• feature table