What are examples of indirectly self-replicating biological materials?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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. Indirectly self-replicating biological materials are those that require the presence of another self-replicating biological material to reproduce. The MPEP 2403.01 provides several examples: Viruses Phages Plasmids Symbionts Replication defective cells The MPEP states: “Examples of indirect replicating biological materials include viruses, phages, plasmids, symbionts, and replication defective cells.” It’s important to note that these lists are not mutually exclusive, as viruses are mentioned in both direct and indirect self-replication categories. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Rules for Depositing Biological Materials MPEP 2403 Definition of Biological Materials for Patent Deposits MPEP 2403 Permitted Procedures for Depositing Biological Materials MPEP 2403 Deposit of Biological Material Required for Enablement MPEP 2403 Permitted Deposits Not Defined for Biological Materials MPEP 2403 Permitted Deposit Not Required for Non-Replicating Materials MPEP 2403 Required Biological Material Including Self-Replicating Substances MPEP 2402 Required Deposit Rules Do Not Decide Patentability MPEP 2403 Deposit Requirement for Claims Under 112(b) MPEP 2403 Permitted Deposit Not Required If Public Starting Material Sufficient MPEP 2403 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is considered biological material capable of self-replication? How does indirect self-replication occur in biological materials? What is the significance of self-replication in biotechnology patents? How does the USPTO define direct self-replication of biological materials? Why are viruses mentioned in both direct and indirect self-replication categories?