How should unbranched nucleotide sequences be presented in patent applications?

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.

According to MPEP 2421.02, unbranched nucleotide sequences in patent applications must be presented as follows:

• They must be listed using a single letter code for nucleotide bases.
• Sequences with 10 or more nucleotides must be represented in the sequence listing.
• Each sequence must be assigned a separate sequence identifier (SEQ ID NO).

The MPEP states: “Unbranched nucleotide sequences of 10 or more residues and unbranched, non-D amino acid sequences of 4 or more residues, provided that there are at least 10 nucleotides or 4 amino acids within the defined sequence, are required to be included in the sequence listing.” This ensures clarity and standardization in the presentation of genetic information within patent applications.