How should sequence variants be represented in a sequence listing?
Sequence variants should be represented as follows:
- Each variant that meets the length threshold must be included in the sequence listing with its own sequence identifier.
- Variants disclosed as a single sequence with enumerated alternative residues should be represented using the most restrictive ambiguity symbol.
- Variants disclosed only by reference to deletions, insertions, or substitutions in a primary sequence should be included in the sequence listing.
- Use appropriate feature keys and qualifiers to describe variants:
- For nucleic acids: use “variation” or “misc_difference” feature keys
- For amino acids: use “VAR_SEQ” or “VARIANT” feature keys
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology,
MPEP 2412.05 - Representation And Symbols For Nucleotide And/Or Amino Acid Sequences,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure