Dear Colleagues,
As you may be aware, WIPO Standard ST.26 introduced a change regarding the minimum length requirement for nucleotide and amino acid sequences, namely, short sequences should not be considered to compose sequence listing files.
The nucleotide sequences (DNA or RNA) with less than 10 nucleotides and amino acid sequences with less than 4 amino acids are automatically categorized as “skipped sequences” by WIPO Sequence software.
Nevertheless, the group of experts responsible for WIPO Standard ST.26 is currently reviewing its impact and are inviting comments directly from applicants and sequence searchers through a survey. Therefore, as a result, the upcoming revision of WIPO Standard ST.26 may change the minimum length requirement for sequence listing files in patent applications and new guidelines may be issued.
To contribute to this discussion, we suggest you participate in the survey (deadline: March 31, 2025). The insights gathered will guide the next steps regarding potential changes to the standard.
We are available to assist you with this matter and will continue to closely monitor this topic, providing updates on any relevant developments.