How do I submit a biological sequence listing for a patent application filed before July 1, 2022?

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.

For patent applications filed before July 1, 2022, biological sequence listings should be submitted as follows:

1. Prepare a “Sequence Listing” as an ASCII plain text file.
2. Ensure the file complies with 37 CFR 1.821 – 1.824.
3. Submit the file via the USPTO patent electronic filing system or on a read-only optical disc.

As stated in MPEP 608.05(c): “For applications filed before July 1, 2022, the sequence listing can be a ‘Sequence Listing’ (as an ASCII plain text file in compliance with 37 CFR 1.821 – 1.824) submission must be submitted via the USPTO patent electronic filing system or on read-only optical disc.”

For detailed information, refer to MPEP §§ 2420 et seq.