What file formats are acceptable for submitting biological sequence listings?

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 acceptable file formats for submitting biological sequence listings in patent applications are:

  • ASCII text files
  • PDF files (for submissions up to 100MB)

MPEP 608.05(c) states: “Sequence listings may be submitted in electronic form via EFS-Web or PatentCenter as ASCII text files or PDF files up to 100 megabytes.”

It’s important to note that ASCII text format is preferred and required for larger submissions. PDF format is acceptable only for smaller submissions up to 100MB. When submitting on read-only optical discs for files over 100MB, the sequence listing must be in ASCII text format.

Ensure that the sequence listing complies with the requirements set forth in 37 CFR 1.821-1.825 regardless of the file format used.

Topics: Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Ascii Text, Biological Sequence Listing, File Formats, Pdf