Seer protein research: ITC 337-TA-1508 default

The U.S. International Trade Commission determined not to review an initial determination finding the sole respondent in Investigation No. 337-TA-1508 in default, and requested written submissions on remedy, the public interest, and bonding (91 FR 65596-65598; FR Doc. 2026-21100), published October 15, 2026. Commission vote and issuance: October 13, 2026 (Lisa Barton, Secretary).

Nanomics is in default. The Commission is taking remedy, public-interest, and bonding briefs. No exclusion order has issued yet.

Investigation and default

Investigation instituted July 2, 2026 (91 FR 40589-90) on a complaint by Seer, Inc. (Redwood City, California) and The Brigham and Women's Hospital (Boston, Massachusetts). Alleges section 337 violation by infringement of certain claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 11,435,360; 11,630,112; 12,050,222; 12,228,566; and 12,590,948. Sole respondent: Nanomics Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China). OUII is a party.

On September 14, 2026 Nanomics filed a notice of intent to default under 19 CFR 210.16(b)(3)(i), stating it did so "having considered the cost and burden of continued participation in this investigation" and without conceding infringement or validity. ALJ issued ID (Order No. 7) on September 16, 2026 finding Nanomics in default and stayed procedural deadlines; no petitions for review. Commission determined not to review; Nanomics is in default under Rule 210.16(b)(3). Docket materials: EDIS. Contact: Richard P. Hadorn, Office of the General Counsel, (202) 205-3179.

Remedy, public interest, and bonding briefs

The Commission requests written submissions on remedy (exclusion order and/or cease and desist orders), public interest (public health and welfare, competitive conditions, U.S. production of like or directly competitive articles, U.S. consumers), and bonding. If a remedy issues, the U.S. Trade Representative has 60 days to approve, disapprove, or take no action (Presidential Memorandum of July 21, 2005, 70 FR 43251), and articles may enter under bond during that period. Complainants are asked to identify the remedy sought, patent expiration dates, HTSUS subheadings for accused products, and known importers; complainants and OUII to submit proposed remedial orders.

• Deadlines: initial submissions and proposed remedial orders by close of business October 30, 2026; replies by close of business November 6, 2026.
• Page limits: party initial 15 pages; party replies 10 pages; third party/agency submissions 10 pages.
• Caption: Inv. No. 337-TA-1508 must appear on the cover page.

Action items

• U.S. labs, distributors, and importers that buy protein-study systems, consumables, or reagents from Nanomics should review supply exposure and consider whether to file public interest comments by October 30, 2026.
• Watch for any exclusion order and bond during the 60-day USTR review period if a remedy issues.
• Customs brokers should prepare to screen entries if an exclusion order issues.

This article is for general information and is not legal or tax advice. Drawback eligibility depends on your specific facts, and final refunds are determined by CBP at liquidation. Consult a licensed customs broker or attorney for your situation.