How do the sequence rules apply to nucleotide sequences in patent applications?

How do the sequence rules apply to nucleotide sequences in patent applications?

The sequence rules for nucleotide sequences in patent applications have specific requirements as outlined in MPEP 2412.01:

“The rules require disclosure of nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences […] if a sequence is disclosed in a patent application by enumeration of its residues and contains 10 or more specifically defined nucleotides or 4 or more specifically defined amino acids.”

Key points for nucleotide sequences:

• Sequences with 10 or more specifically defined nucleotides must be disclosed
• The disclosure should be in the form of a sequence listing
• Each sequence must be assigned a unique sequence identifier (SEQ ID NO)
• The sequence must be represented using the symbols for nucleotide bases as specified in 37 CFR 1.822

Applicants must ensure all qualifying nucleotide sequences are properly disclosed to comply with the sequence rules and facilitate the examination process.

To learn more:

• nucleotide sequences
• sequence rules
• patent applications
• biotechnology