When did the requirements for Sequence Listings change?

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 requirements for Sequence Listings in patent applications changed on July 1, 2022. This is clearly stated in the MPEP:

“[Editor Note: This section is not applicable to applications filed on or after July 1, 2022, having disclosures of nucleotide and/or amino acid sequences as defined in 37 CFR 1.831(b).]”

For applications filed before July 1, 2022, the requirements under WIPO ST.25 as outlined in 37 CFR 1.823 apply. For applications filed on or after July 1, 2022, new requirements under WIPO ST.26 apply, which are detailed in MPEP §§ 2412 – 2419.