How should branched sequences be represented in WIPO ST.25 format?

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.

Branched sequences require special handling in WIPO ST.25 format. According to MPEP 2423:

“A sequence that contains regions of specifically defined residues separated by one or more regions of consecutively branched residues comprising any one or more of the following: ‘J’, ‘O’, or ‘Z’, must include the branched portion(s) within the sequence. The linear portions of the sequence must be represented as described in paragraph 7. The branched portions of the sequence must be represented as ‘No SEQ ID NO’ in numeric identifier and described in the Feature section.”

To properly represent branched sequences:

• Include the linear portions of the sequence using standard WIPO ST.25 format
• Represent branched portions as “No SEQ ID NO” in numeric identifier
• Provide a detailed description of the branched portions in the Feature section
• Use the symbols ‘J’, ‘O’, or ‘Z’ to indicate the presence of branched residues

This approach ensures that both the linear and branched portions of the sequence are accurately represented and described in the patent application.