What are the accepted submission methods for biological sequence listings in patent applications?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

The USPTO accepts two primary methods for submitting biological sequence listings in patent applications:

  1. USPTO patent electronic filing system: This is the preferred method for submitting sequence listings.
  2. Read-only optical disc: An alternative method if electronic filing is not possible.

These submission methods apply to both pre-July 1, 2022, and post-July 1, 2022 applications. As stated in MPEP 608.05(c): “[…] submission must be submitted via the USPTO patent electronic filing system or on read-only optical disc.”

It’s important to note that the file format requirements differ based on the application filing date, but the submission methods remain the same.

Topics: Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Biological Sequence Listings, electronic filing, patent applications, Uspto Submission Methods