What is the purpose of MPEP 2401?

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.

MPEP 2401 serves as an introduction to the chapter on biotechnology in the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. Specifically, it states:

“This chapter provides guidance on the practices and procedures pertaining to the rules for deposits of biological materials for patent purposes ( 37 CFR 1.801 – 1.809 ) and the rules for the requirements for patent applications containing nucleotide sequence and/or amino acid sequence disclosures ( 37 CFR 1.821 – 1.825 and 37 CFR 1.831 – 1.835 ).”

This section sets the stage for detailed discussions on biological deposits and sequence disclosures in patent applications.