How should sequence identifiers be used in patent applications?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. Sequence identifiers are crucial for proper identification of nucleotide and amino acid sequences in patent applications. According to MPEP 2427 : Nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences appearing in the specification or drawings must be identified by sequence identifiers. The sequence identifier should be preceded by “SEQ ID NO:” in the text of the description or claims. Sequence identifiers must appear either in the drawings or in the Brief Description of the Drawings. Failure to properly use sequence identifiers can result in non-compliance with 37 CFR 1.821(d) and may require correction by the applicant. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Nucleotide and Amino Acid Sequence Disclosures Not Required for Pre-July 1, 2022 Applications MPEP 2427 Specification Must Be Preceded by Form Paragraph 24.01 MPEP 2427 Required Deficiency Form Paragraphs May Follow Main Paragraph MPEP 2427 Permitted Form Paragraphs Must Follow Each Other MPEP 2427 Required Specification Must Follow Form Paragraph 24.01 MPEP 2427 Required Requirement for Sequence Identifier Absence in Drawings MPEP 2427 Recommended Requirement for Proper Submission of Computer Program Listing, Sequence Listing, and Large Tables on Read-Only Optical Disc MPEP 2427 Recommended Deficiency Form Paragraphs May Follow MPEP 2427 Permitted Deficiency Form Paragraphs May Follow MPEP 2427 Permitted Deficiency Form Paragraphs May Follow MPEP 2427 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the common deficiencies in Sequence Listing submissions? What are the consequences of non-compliance with Sequence Listing requirements? How can minor errors in Sequence Listing compliance be handled? What is t...