What is the “Sequence Listing XML” and why is it important?

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 “Sequence Listing XML” is a critical component of patent applications filed on or after July 1, 2022, that contain disclosures of nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences. It must comply with WIPO Standard ST.26 and include a sequence data part.

As stated in MPEP 2413.01(g):

“The sequence data part is the part of the ‘Sequence Listing XML’ that associates all relevant biological sequence information for each individual nucleotide or amino acid sequence that meets the definition for inclusion in a ‘Sequence Listing XML.’”

This part is crucial for properly representing and cataloging biological sequence information in patent applications.