What is WIPO Standard ST.26 and how does it relate to Sequence Listing XML?

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.

WIPO Standard ST.26 is a set of guidelines for the presentation of nucleotide and amino acid sequence listings in patent applications. It is directly related to Sequence Listing XML requirements as specified in MPEP 2413.01(c):

The “Sequence Listing XML” presented in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section must further: […] (2) Comply with the requirements of WIPO Standard ST.26

WIPO Standard ST.26 provides detailed specifications for the format and content of Sequence Listing XML, including the requirement for an XML declaration. Patent applicants must adhere to these standards when submitting sequence listings in their patent applications.