RE: JPM2 Jan 2026 20:57
From Grok :
United States (USPTO – Technology Center 1600: Biotechnology and Organic Chemistry)
• Biotech applications are examined in TC 1600, which consistently shows higher pendency than other areas.
• As of early 2026 (reflecting FY2025 data), overall USPTO first office action pendency is around 22–26 months, with traditional total pendency (filing to grant/abandonment, excluding RCEs) at approximately 26–30 months.
• TC 1600 experiences longer delays due to backlogs, examiner expertise needs, and issues like subject matter eligibility (101 rejections) or enablement.
• Recent challenges (hiring freezes, workforce changes in 2025) have increased pendency across TCs, with TC 1600 highlighted as one of the most affected.
• Expedited options (Track One, PPH) can reduce this to 12 months or less.
Europe (European Patent Office – EPO)
• Biotechnology falls under fields like pharmaceuticals and organic chemistry, where examination is rigorous.
• Average grant procedure remains 3–5 years (36–60 months) from filing, with biotech often on the longer end due to complexity and potential oppositions (post-grant).
• No major recent changes reported specifically shortening biotech timelines; overall EPO pendency stable.