Skip to main content
Glama

density_view

Convert EMDB contour levels to sigma and draw an isomesh around a PyMOL selection, reporting the level in both units to avoid noise artifacts.

Instructions

Draw an isomesh around a selection, stating the contour level in both units.

PyMOL normalises MRC/CCP4 maps on load, so an isomesh level is in sigma. EMDB's author-recommended contour is an absolute map value. They are not interchangeable and the difference is not subtle: EMD-30913 publishes 0.05, which is 3.16 sigma — used directly as a sigma level it contours noise.

So the level is reported in sigma AND absolute units every time, an absolute level is converted before it reaches PyMOL, and EMDB depositions get a pointer to their published contour with the units named. Requires the map to have been loaded through load_map, because the conversion needs the header's mean and RMS.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
nameNoMesh object name (defaults to "<map_obj>_mesh")
carveNoCarve radius in Ångström around the selection (default 2.0)
levelNoContour level. If omitted, 1.5 sigma is used and labelled as generic.
unitsNoUnits of `level`: "sigma" (what PyMOL contours in) or "absolute" (what EMDB publishes). An absolute level is converted.sigma
map_objYesA volume already loaded through the load_map tool
selectionYesPyMOL selection to carve the mesh around (e.g. "chain A")

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior5/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It reveals that PyMOL levels are in sigma, that absolute levels are converted before reaching PyMOL, that EMDB depositions get a pointer with units named, and that the level is always reported in both units. This rich detail goes well beyond a basic 'draws a mesh' statement.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is three sentences, each earning its place: the main action, the problem it solves, and the operational requirement. It is dense but not bloated, and the most important information is front-loaded.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given an output schema exists, the description doesn't need to detail return values. It covers the core behavior, unit conversion, and the load_map prerequisite. Minor gaps include explicit error handling if the map is not loaded correctly, but overall it is sufficiently complete for a moderately complex tool.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema coverage is 100%, so baseline is 3. The description adds meaningful semantics for 'level' and 'units' by explaining the sigma/absolute distinction, conversion, and what happens when 'level' is omitted (1.5 sigma generic). This adds value beyond the schema's simple parameter descriptions.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description opens with 'Draw an isomesh around a selection, stating the contour level in both units,' which is a specific verb+resource statement. It also uniquely highlights the dual-unit reporting, distinguishing it from sibling tools like isomesh and isosurface.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description clearly states the prerequisite: 'Requires the map to have been loaded through load_map' and explains why. It also provides context about the sigma vs absolute discrepancy with EMDB, but it does not explicitly name alternative tools or state when not to use this tool, so it stops short of full exclusion guidance.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

Install Server

Other Tools

Latest Blog Posts

MCP directory API

We provide all the information about MCP servers via our MCP API.

curl -X GET 'https://glama.ai/api/mcp/v1/servers/chemrich/MCPymol'

If you have feedback or need assistance with the MCP directory API, please join our Discord server