How does a restriction requirement affect biological deposit obligations?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30

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.

A restriction requirement can impact biological deposit obligations in patent applications. The MPEP 2411.01 provides guidance on this situation:

“In the event of a restriction requirement, all claims requiring a deposit must be limited to the elected subject matter that relates to the deposit.”

This means that if a restriction requirement is made, and the applicant elects to prosecute claims related to a specific group or species, they must ensure that the biological deposit corresponds to the elected subject matter. Claims that require a deposit but are not related to the elected group may need to be withdrawn or canceled. It’s crucial for applicants to carefully consider their deposit strategy when faced with a restriction requirement to maintain compliance with 37 CFR 1.801-1.809 for the elected claims.

Topics: MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology MPEP 2411.01 - Rejections Based On Deposit Issue Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Access Records, Budapest Compliance, Specification